SO Magazine December 2020

CULTURE

Talk of the town

The inspiring story behind a new set of exclusive Christmas cards for Tunbridge Wells

BUSINESS

Follower of fashion

How the entrepreneur running The English Beagle has her new clothing line all sewn up

FOOD & DRINK

A festive feast

Local resident and top chef Marcus Wareing shares his delicious dishes for Dec 25

WINDOW OF OPPORTUNITY

SOPHIE STEVENS REVEALS WHY TUNBRIDGE WELLS IS THE PERFECT PLACE FOR HER SUCCESSFUL ARCHITECTURAL INTERIORS BUSINESS

December 2020

• • • • •

WELCOME

Editor’s LETTER

T

is the season to be merry and I hope this December issue of SO magazine will bring you oodles of that!

After what can only be described as the strangest of years, we wrap up 2020 with a flurry of festive feel good features including how to ensure Christmas lunch is a roaring success courtesy of local resident and celebrity chef Marcus Wareing’s sensational recipes (P40) and Beyond The Table’s genius styling ideas (p46).

In addition to that we have a last-minute gift guide which is full to the brim with lots of ideas on how you can buy and in turn support local when it comes to presents (p26). With lockdowns and tier systems preventing us using our humble High Street in the run up to the big day, never has it been more important to do so.

Our cover features another talented local, Sophie Stevens of SGS Designs, a successful architectural interiors business.

Sophie tells us all about how she made the leap from law to pursue her dream of running her own business, creating people’s dream homes. Her company works all over the South East and have most recently been responsible for the astonishing refurbishment of The Beacon pub and restaurant in Tunbridge Wells. Turn to page 10 to read more.

In addition to all your favourite lifestyle features we also talk to illustrator Gemma Marissa MurrayHunt about her work

contents December 2020

6 8 10 16 20

Culture vulture: winter’s best walks

Party on: Paul Dunton looks forward to a more musical 2021

Design for life: Sophie Stevens reveals the secrets of her businesses success Calling card: We meet local illustrator Gemma Marissa MurrayHunt

which includes a new set of a beautiful charity Christmas cards featuring some very well-known spots in Tunbridge Wells. We think you’ll agree they’re timeless and very much a reflection of the town we know and love so well in all its glory. We very much look forward to when we can all freely meet up in it and enjoy all it has to offer…

Merry Christmas and a very happy, peaceful and healthy New Year to you all,

Skirting the issue: The English Beagle’s Audrey Williams talks about the importance of bespoke fashion

26 32 36

Festive cheer: We show you how to make your own Christmas

wreath

Eileen Leahy Editor So magazine Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram @somagazines

Issue 149 SALOMONS ESTATE Tunbridge Wells Kent TN3 0TG Tel: 01892 779650 www.timeslocalnews.co.uk

EDITOR Eileen Leahy info@somagazines.co.uk

HEAD OF DESIGN Lee Smith lsmith8@markerstudy.com

SALES DIRECTOR Robin Singer rsinger@markerstudy.com

EDITORIAL Victoria Truman Karen Martin Naomi Murray

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Richard Moore rmoore@markerstudy.com

DESIGN & PHOTOGRAPHY David Sexton Rose Bainbridge

54

Christmas all wrapped up: Don’t miss our last minute local gift guide

The manifestation game: Our resident hypnotherapist Karen Martin tells you how to get what you want

40

Recipe for Christmas day success: Marcus Wareing suggests a perfect menu for December 25

42

46

Top table: Sarah Freeman of Beyond the Table shares her top tips for picture perfect tablescaping

48 52

Treat yourself: Why Self-Care Sundays pamper boxes are the ultimate spa style gift

Deck the halls: Interiors expert Joss Miller shows you how to decorate your home in style this Christmas

56 58

Let’s go outside: Gardening guru Victoria Truman on nature’s rich bounty Drive of your life: This month’s must have motoring experience

Winter chills: Botanica’s Naomi Murray on how to ward off the common cold naturally

Let’s get fizzical: James Viner pops the cork on some of the best tipples to enjoy this holiday season

PRINTED BY: Mortons Print PUBLISHED BY

All rights reserved. The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher. The publisher cannot accept responsibility for any errors or omissions relating to advertising or editorial. The publisher reserves the right to change or amend any competitions or prizes offered. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior written consent from the publisher. No responsibility is taken for unsolicited materials or the return of these materials whilst in transit.

SO Magazine | December 2020 | 3

HAPPY DIAMONDS COLLECTION

CALENDAR

Our edit of the most entertaining events happening this month With the ongoing coronavirus situation, some of the usual events that would be happening this month may still be unable to take place. That’s why it’s always best to check before heading out. But remember, we are still allowed out in the great outdoors so how about discovering some of these gems on our doorstep…

Whether you’re looking for a challenging walk to work off all that festive excess or want a cultural spot to explore during the lull between Christmas and New Year then you’ll be spoilt for choice around our local area.

MAKE YOUR CHRISTMAS

BY ROYAL APPOINTMENT Hever and Scotney castles are just two regal residences which boast some fabulous outdoor grounds to explore.

And during the festive season there’s lots to see and do at both.

At Hever, visitors can follow the trail which takes in Anne Boleyn’s Walk and Diana’s Walk or for those wanting a longer stroll, Lake Walk, the Japanese Tea House folly and Smugglers Walk offer spectacular colour and interest.

Those wishing to stick to the main paths can marvel at the classical statuary in the Italian Garden; admire the giant topiary chess set in the Tudor Garden and stroll through Blue Corner. The Loggia, overlooking the 38-acre lake, is the perfect spot to relax before exploring the many cascades, grottoes and fountains.

Over at Scotney Castle it’s an equally seasonal sight courtesy of the timely frost and ice which settles on the picturesque moat as well as the

medieval castle’s grounds. The National Trust estate is also home to many walks through beautiful parkland and woodland so when you go, pick up an estate map from the visitors’ reception to locate the three waymarked trails.

Winter also transforms the woodland, farmland and lakes surrounding Sissinghurst Castle – and also that of Bodiam in East Sussex – into frosted landscapes. Make sure you check out each website for up to date details on what’s on when during December.

SO MUCH MORE THAN JUST A WALK IN THE PARK . . .

Whilst Knole’s historic interior closes during the winter months, its 1,000 acre parkland is most certainly open for business. In fact this is probably the best time to catch sight of the 350-strong resident wild deer herd who call this wonderful place home.

There are plenty of guided walks

DID YOU KNOW? Margaret Thatcher had an apartment at Scotney Castle during her time in power during the 1980s.

around this ancient parkland to enjoy including special ones on Boxing Day and New Year’s Day, from 2-3pm.

And if we have a white Christmas why not take along your sledge as the hillier parts of Knole are brilliant for tobogganing down!

The country park at Bewl Water, located just off the A21, is the South East’s biggest reservoir and as well as all the recreational activities on offer there, it’s fair to say that it’s just a perfect place to go for a relaxing stroll.

During December there’s the chance to participate in its new Christmas experience where children can meet Santa and enjoy the venue’s ice rink until December 24th. The 800 acre site is set in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, right in the heart of the High Weald and if you choose to do a circuit of the reservoir why not treat yourself to a hot chocolate and mince pie in one of the park’s two smart eateries afterwards? Entrance costs £3 per vehicle.

Then there’s the stunning Ashdown Forest to roam around during those quiet days over the Christmas period.

This is also located at the heart of the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and it has national and international protection because of its wildlife. Nearly two thirds of its 6,500 acres are heathland, amounting to 2.5% of the UK’s extent of this rare habitat. Originally a deer hunting forest in Norman times, Ashdown Forest is now one of the largest free public access spaces in the South East – and of course it is the mythical ‘home’ of Winnie-the-Pooh.

And don’t forget that the glorious Penshurst Place is just perfect for a seasonal stroll too. Its parkland and riverside walks are popular with walkers of all ages and the views across the Wealden countryside are nothing short of spectacular. Both walks can be completed within a day, creating a figure-of-eight loop route starting and finishing at the Penshurst Place visitors’ car park.

6 | December 2020 | SO Magazine

CALENDAR

SEE SANTA BEFORE HE HEADS OFF ON HIS SLEIGH ON CHRISTMAS EVE At the time of going to press most visitor attractions were set to reopen but as always, please check with each individual venue before heading out . . .

This month you have the opportunity to visit the Wishing Tree and also see Father Christmas on his special sleigh at Groombridge Place.

The venue is scheduled to be open from Wednesday December 16 to Thursday December 24 and you can explore the little secret garden with its gentle stream and wooden bridge which will be magically transformed into a delightful Christmas scene where children can add a wish to the tree.

There is a one-way system in place to ensure social distancing can be maintained.

There will also be Punch and Judy Shows at Crusoe’s World from Saturday December 19 to Christmas Eve which can be watched in your own family group.

During this festive event families can take advantage of the flexible family & friends’ ticket, which allows four people to visit for £25 with just one required to be under 12.

There are specific time slots available each day and these can be booked in advance at www. groombridgeplace.com

SEE CHRISTMAS IN A WHOLE NEW LIGHT It's the most wonderful time of the year, as they say, and it’s pretty hard to beat the Christmas offering at Bedgebury Pinetum.

Not only will visitors to this natural attraction be able to walk through the illuminated forest marvelling at the many colourfully lit trees and shrubs , they can spy Christmas trees floating on boats, have a quick kiss under the Mistletoe Moment and toast some marshmallows in one of the route’s many fire pits.

For tickets and information please visit www.christmasatbedgebury.seetickets.com

DID YOU KNOW? The deer at Knole Park are also descendants of those deer who were hunted by Henry VIII?

SO Magazine | December 2020 | 7

Music

L

After nearly a year of nearly no live music or festivals happening due to coronavirus SO’s music correspondent Paul Dunton feels that things may look a lot brighter for our local musicians in 2021

Paul Dunton Music Editor

Follow Paul @PaulDuntonmusic

8 | December 2020 | SO Magazine

ooking ahead to the festive season and 2021 there is good reason to be cautiously optimistic.

The promise of a new vaccine will hopefully be a significant contributing factor in bringing Covid 19 to a grinding halt and over time we can all get back on our feet in every sense.

It will of course take considerable time for things to return to how they were before the pandemic and perhaps things will never quite be the same again, only time will tell.

For the arts and culture industry it really is going to be a brick by brick rebuilding process and tragically many venues and jobs have been lost forever, however some very recent positive news is that Trinity Theatre, Tunbridge Wells Forum and The Assembly Hall Theatre were all awarded

significant grants from the Arts Council.

These much needed funds will ensure that all three venues will be able to continue operating well into 2021 and take away the immediate threat of permanent closure in addition to saving many jobs.

The Forum and The Assembly Hall Theatre recently went into partnership for a run of live band shows entitled ‘Forum Nights’ which started in October and were put on hold during the second lockdown and will now continue in the new year, if possible.

The shows are all seated, with all socially distanced measures adhered to, allowing a maximum capacity of 300 people which is under a third of the Assembly Hall Theatre’s capacity.

The Forum Nights shows that did take place have been a great success

and very well received.

The iconic venue’s incredibly popular annual ‘Bowie Night’ is due to be held at The Assembly Hall Theatre on January 8 if we are not in lockdown. On January 30th, renowned local singer-songwriter, Mark Morriss of The Bluetones will hopefully headline at Trinity Theatre and from February onwards there is in place a provisional schedule for regular live events to return in full at all three venues which is very welcome news indeed.

Elsewhere in town The Royal Oak Pub has been able to continue its live music programme in between both lockdowns with a mix of socially distanced outdoor and indoor events and It is hoped that from the spring, a number of other local pubs and clubs will also be able to stage live music once again.

The challenge for

Music

Photo © Nigel Martin

venues, large and small is being able to make the reduced capacity numbers work in every regard.

Creating a separate pathway in and out for example in a small venue can prove to be very difficult and if you can only offer a handful of tables due to the measures then the likelihood is the numbers just don’t stack up to make it viable financially in addition to

the concerns of performers spacing apart sufficiently and the effects of singing, wind instruments in close proximity to audiences and performers alike.

A larger venue may of course have the space to overcome these hurdles however how many cannot operate on a heavily reduced capacity without sending ticket prices through the roof

which is generally not a welcome solution.

So with 2021 just around the corner there appears to be at least a small beacon of hope in the offing. Should the new vaccine be effective and be able to be widely distributed fairly quickly, (I know that’s a lot of ifs) then I can see live music returning to venues across UK by late spring, although this may mean following

certain restrictions and measures.

As much as we would all love to see the return of festivals and concerts, we may have to wait a while longer to put on those coveted dancing shoes. Live music will return in due course and we will all need to support it more than ever before when the time comes.

Here’s to a brighter future and Merry Christmas! Roll on 2021!

Photo © Nigel Martin

To find out more information for forthcoming events across the borough of Tunbridge Wells and beyond visit www. tunbridgewellsevents. co.uk SO Magazine | December 2020 | 9

Cover Feature

desig gn for liffe Meet the team with a

Photos: ©craig matthews

“

Sophie Stevens launched her architectural and interiors company SGS Design in 2010.

Since then she and her team, who are responsible for the recent super stylish makeover of The Beacon amongst many other high-profile renovation projects, have seen the business go from strength to strength. Eileen Leahy discovers the secret of SGS’s success...

10 | December 2020 | SO Magazine

Cover Feature

“I’m

a frustrated architect with a fascination in buildings and interiors,” Sophie Stevens reveals when I ask her how her successful business, SGS Design, based in a super trendy converted old telephone exchange building in Southborough came to be.

“It’s an obsession which can in turn frustrate my husband and daughter who endure detours to explore an interesting looking building I’ve glimpsed or, outings and holidays booked entirely around interiors I’d like to visit or stay in!”

Such a palpable passion for buildings, their history and intricate period details stems from Sophie’s many childhood visits to National Trust properties and also her parents’ respective interest in engineering and art she says.

“This appears to have rubbed-off on my siblings too, as they have pursued careers in photography and product design,” continues Sophie.

“We share a tendency to explore the world by touching surfaces and being distracted by interesting structures, patterns or colour which catches our imagination.”

Yet although Sophie had an early interest in all things aesthetic – as a child she says additional enjoyment came from wallpapering (and wiring) her dolls’ house before sticking all the furniture, handmade accessories and window dressings in - she admits it took her a while to actually start

doing her ‘dream job.’

“I had a delayed arrival at my dream job as an interior designer. My family has a mix of academic and creative influences and at first I opted for the former, enrolling at the London School of Economics to study Law. “I quickly realised my interest lay in the cathedral spires of The Royal Courts of Justice and neo-classical influences of The Soane Museum rather than my subject matter,” laughs Sophie.

Once she realised she’d made such an error of judgement, Sophie benefited from the support and guidance of her ‘patient’ father-in-law to put her on the right career path.

“My very patient father-in-law, George, took me under his wing and shared his architectural background and knowledge with me. I attended surveys, initially to hold a tape measure, until eventually I was entrusted to sketch on site and then set up plans and elevations on an old-fashioned drawing board.

BUILDING A BUSINESS

“This was the best way to understand how a building goes together, all the component parts and the opportunities you have to play with; the structure to improve the interior flow and environment. I was completely enthralled and hooked on interiors as part of architectural continuity.”

This led to Sophie enrolling on an interior design course at the KLC

School of Design in London while she also worked for a local interior designer in Tunbridge Wells.

She reveals that after a period of living in Australia she finally felt it was time to branch out on her own.

“We returned from living in Melbourne in 2009 and I knew it was the right time to explore what I could achieve by myself. I had clients I’d worked for before leaving the UK and I had maintained these relationships.

So I was fortunate enough to pick-up work whilst also building a reputation with local builders and architects and growing my client base.”

Sophie continued to work with her father-in-law, focusing on the interiors side of projects but, as she points out, ‘always with an understanding of the architectural process as the starting point’. “This was invaluable experience and support in the early years which helped me to establish my company SGS Design in 2010. It was all just perfect timing; my daughter was now old enough to sit next to me in my home office and complete her homework while I carried on working on client projects and the business grew.”

Those days of working from home and juggling childcare are a far cry from where SGS and Sophie are now.

Boasting a team of six, all female employees - ranging from architects to interior designers - and a wealth of impressive projects including the much fêted revamp of The Beacon in Tea SO Magazine | December 2020 | 11

Cover Feature

SGS STYLE FILE Some of the amazing areas of The Beacon which SGS Design refurbished:

ALL IN THE DETAIL: Does SGS Design have a signature style?

We are client-led with our design approach but have a distinct viewpoint. You have to start each project with the unique requirements of that specific project’s family, their lifestyle and the personality of the building or space we are working with rather than arrive with preconceived ideas about what we want to achieve. Our role is to interpret the client’s style and brief but then use our knowledge of suppliers, products and design solutions to refine the client’s vision into something which hopefully exceeds their expectations.

Garden Lane as well as numerous luxury client’s viewpoint as a custodian of the renovations all over the south east and London, building and we have to balance modern it’s fair to say Sophie’s business is going from lifestyle with preserving the building.” strength to strength. So what was the catalyst for SGS’s success?

A BEACON OF LIGHT “One project changed everything and I’ve One such place is The Beacon bar and never looked back. I was fortunate enough to restaurant in Tunbridge Wells which SGS has be appointed to an exciting new build where transformed from a run of the mill country the brief was to create a new family home pub into one of the area’s most stylish and within the walled garden and grounds of an unique establishments. existing property and the over-riding “The Beacon project was an unlikely contact requirement of the design was that it mustn’t made through cycling. I’m married to an look like a new-build. obsessive road cyclist and we owned The Velo “It was a wonderful experience and tested my House in Tunbridge Wells for four years,” ability to visualise a completed project, which is explains Sophie. very different when you’re working on a new“We met Pete Cornwall (owner of the I’ll build and not a renovation.

Be Mother Group which also runs “This ability to visualise in 3D Twenty Six in Southborough) was something I had always through a shared interest in presumed everyone could do cycling and his experience in “We have been but I realise now it’s definitely the hospitality industry. very fortunate as we a skill - and a key requirement “We jumped at the have been incredibly busy opportunity to work for for a job such as this. The throughout the year and Pete and his dedicated team clients were a dream to work for, the project manager was have exciting new projects at The Beacon although I so supportive and the completely underestimated lined up for 2021” contractors were amazing, the opportunity and challenge However, I soon realised that if I of having our designs open to wanted to do this scale of project public scrutiny!” again then I needed help.

So what was the brief Pete and his “A wise person once said you should always team gave Sophie and her colleagues to employ people cleverer than you are and that’s transform it into the superbly well considered been my aim ever since and so SGS Design has space it is now? just grown from there.”

“To create a relaxed and homely venue as a In terms of the types of projects SGS Design backdrop to Pete’s ‘performance’ in the bar typically work on Sophie says it is and kitchen. My influence for the interiors predominantly high-end residential projects, was my great aunt’s home which I remember one-off new-build homes or large extensions as a child being comfortable chaos. I wanted and refurbishments. guests at The Beacon to feel like they were “These are normally family principal visiting a friendly relative’s home, somewhere residences and local to our Kent-base. However you could open an interesting looking door to we do often get asked to work on London see what was beyond or cosy by the fire with a homes and holiday properties which allows us book from the bookcase and a glass of wine some scope to explore new influences and from the house cellar.” suppliers. We also work on listed properties In addition to the work the company has which brings another level of design already done over the past decade are there development as we have to gain an any more types of property Sophie would like understanding of the history of the home and to take on? use our experience and supplier base to source “This is a bit like asking my what my favourite appropriate materials and design techniques to colour is! I just don’t have one as it’s just about accommodate the listing requirements and using the right colour in the right place and protect the historical fabric of the building. whilst I always have my current colour obsession “It is always such a privilege to be involved in (ochre at the moment), this changes - and these projects and you really understand the projects work in the same way. It is the variety 12 | December 2020 | SO Magazine

Where does the SGS team draw inspiration from?

It can come from the building itself or the setting and location, but equally from a client’s artwork or a specific tile or fabric we might inherit in an older property.

Understanding the building and the architect’s intention, is always essential and our starting point. My childhood spent wandering through English stately homes remains an invaluable foundation for my aesthetic but living in Australia and travelling have also brought new influences and an appreciation of modern architecture. I think it’s essential that interior design isn’t fixed in any one single period.

Cover Feature

which keeps me excited about day-to-day in the studio.”

The projects SGS currently has on its books include a listed oast house in Kent, a Regent’s Park Queen’s Estate home, an Elizabethan manor house in East Sussex and new-builds in south London and Surrey.

MADE IN BRITAIN

Over the past nine months Sophie says that the Covid crisis has led to SGS using more and more UK-based manufacturing and suppliers for their projects and also because clients are becoming more concerned about sustainability and the impact of Brexit.

“British-made benefits from guaranteed delivery,” states Sophie before adding that the recent pandemic issues have also highlighted how important the years of relationship-building with suppliers is.

“As an established business we have been able to ensure our clients have had minimal disruption over recent months and our supplier contacts have been excellent at communicating and supporting additional demands.”

Suppliers that SGS Design regularly works with include Samuel Heath, a Birminghambased brassware manufacturer,

Porta Romana, an interiors company based in Surrey and furniture makers George Smith, who use traditional methods to create beautiful classic and contemporary sofas, occasional chairs and ottomans.

“It is always worth the extra effort when we get to hand-over the finished product and see the client’s response often following months or years of building the design together, there is nothing more rewarding.”

It all sounds like a true success story with each accomplishment becoming even greater but does Sophie ever experience any downsides to running her own business?

“Back in March when we had to close the doors to the studio, due to the lockdown, I did have a wobble and wonder how I was going to keep the business going.

It was thankfully a fleeting thought and with the support of my long-suffering husband and the SGS Design team, we have been very fortunate as we have been incredibly busy throughout the year and have exciting new projects lined up for 2021.

“I don’t think I would have survived the lock-down experience with the same level of sanity had it not been for the design team pulling together, working incredibly hard and

being open to new ways of operating and forging forward.”

Sophie adds that running a business is not for the faint hearted and that it’s often a sacrifice but one secret weapon in her armoury has been appointing a ‘Business Coach’, to help her navigate her business with fresh, independent ‘eyes and ears’.

“It has been a new experience and the process is very much still ongoing but having an external set of eyes and ears to help develop and grow the business has been invaluable. We have monthly meetings largely based around business development opportunities but also to discuss the well-being of staff and the team development. I’ve always felt collaboration was important in business and design, and as the studio has grown I have had to learn to listen to other people’s design viewpoint but as a result by the time the project reaches the client, the design has been fully tested and refined so the end result considered.”

Sophie also realises that despite 2020 being full of uncertainty she has a responsibility to continue to develop her business.

“Whilst the main take-away of the past few months has been to expect the unexpected, I am full 14 | December 2020 | SO Magazine

TEAMWORK MAKES THE DREAM WORK: I employ a talented and hardworking team: we have been very fortunate to work through without interruption or furlough. Helen Bonsall was the first interior architect I employed and we haven’t looked back. We now have Chantelle Gadd, Poppy Younger and our most recent addition to the team and fresh from university is Catherine Millgate. In addition to the architects, I have Vanessa Peters-Ennis who boasts a traditional interior design background and training with a wealth of experience having worked for numerous London-based interior designers and suppliers. This combination is complimentary and ensures a holistic approach to our designs. Jilly Westoby runs our procurement and is often the first point of contact for anyone placing an enquiry with the business.

My pleasure in running SGS is seeing our development.

Everyone is completely invested in what they do.

of hope for the future of the business and hope to grow the team next year. I have an obligation to keep us relevant and competitive which is both challenging and exciting.

“Like many small businesses, we have survived a tough few years with Brexit uncertainty and now COVID-19 but we are currently benefiting from clients willing to invest in their homes to improve their wellbeing and happiness.”

Sophie tells me that SGS has seen both new and old clients revaluating their interior space and asking the architectural interior design business to work with them.

“A lot of the time it is to accommodate these new tensions between work and play at home. And as there has been a migration from London to the local area - many of our new enquiries are clients new to Tunbridge Wells and looking to establish a family home here.

“I’m sure there will be challenges but we have proven that the business can be reactive and nimble when required, I’m looking forward to the new year and a number of exciting project completions in the spring.” www.sgsdesign.co.uk

Business

“Art isn’t just a passion, it’s part of who I am...”

Gemma Marissa MurrayHunt is a local artist who has just been commissioned to illustrate some of Tunbridge Wells’ most iconic spots in a beautiful collection of Christmas cards.

Here she tells SO magazine why art isn’t just a day job but an integral part of her

16 | December 2020 | SO Magazine

So Gemma, let's start with you telling us a bit about yourself…

I grew up in Yorkshire and after completing an art foundation degree in Leeds I moved to London to begin university in 2003. Then, when we had our first child, my husband and I decided to move away from the city and have been in Tunbridge Wells ever since. We love living here, it’s such a wonderful place to be!

Have you always had a love for art and if so how did you translate that passion into a career?

Yes, I grew up in a very creative household. My mum, sister and I are all artistic and we were always working on different craft projects and I loved it all!!It was therefore inevitable that I would

end up working in a creative industry as everything I have always done has been centred around art. I am very fortunate to work doing something that I love. Art isn’t just a passion, it’s part of who I am so it’s a natural thing for me to always be surrounded by creativity.

What was your path into working as a professional artist?

I studied for a textiles degree at Chelsea College of Art and Design and on graduating I worked for designers Paul Smith and then Luella Bartley. I really

enjoyed mentoring the interns while at Luella so decided to do a PGCSE in Art & Design at the Institute of Education. I have great affection for teaching – and it’s something I hope to revisit in the future. Seeing how passionate children are about art is so inspirational, and also art is a way to explore expression and escapism.

So when and why did you decide to launch your own business?

I have always carried a sketchbook around with me and loved to draw. However, after leaving university and whist working I never had the time to fully

”.

Open 7 Days a Week Mon – Sat: 10.00am -5.30pm Sunday: 11.00am – 4.00pm 9 Chapel Place, Tunbridge Wells, TN1 1YQ

(located between the High Street and The Pantiles)

Tel: 01892 540216 | Email: gabriellajewellery@outlook.com

Furniture and kitchen refurbishment, painted a colour of your choice!

Collection & delivery available.

Bespoke joinery.

Before

After

Over 70 painted items available in store....

102 London Road Southborough, Kent TN4 0PW 01892 458021 www.chestsanddrawers.co.uk enquiries@chestsanddrawers.co.uk

Before

After

Business

concentrate on it. When I had my second child four years ago, I began to draw a lot more when she was sleeping or when I had some free time. I started mainly drawing children's portraits and then I moved on to drawing famous characters from books or television programmes. Over the past couple of years I have also had the opportunity to work with local businesses on unique commissions, which has been wonderful and something I hope to do more of.

Christmas time and adding a festive twist to each image was so comforting and made me excited for the Christmas period to begin. I just love Christmas!

Where else will they be on sale or are they exclusively at lumière?

The Tunbridge Wells Christmas card collection will be exclusively available from lumière. I also have another collection of floral and nutcracker themed Christmas cards that will be available from Laura at the brilliant The Inside, Calverley Playground and also in the pop-up store in the Royal Victoria Place when it reopens in December.

How did your Christmas cards celebrating 2020 and charity cards sold in lumière for the Hospice in the Weald and come about?

How would you Melissa, the owner “Thinking of describe your of lumière, and I have young children Christmas time personal artistic style? the same age and and adding a My main interest is to after chatting over a play date with our festive twist to draw portraits as I find faces fascinating. girls I showed her each image was I also like to draw my work via flowers and the Instagram and she so comforting pattern and textures later asked me to and made me of materials and illustrate for her new lighting store. excited for the clothing. My preferred way of Therefore my work Christmas working is by doing with lumière began line drawings and I illustrated the period to begin” simple with pencil and paper lumière store front, and all of my work which also became starts this way.

Hospice in the However, after studying a course Weald cards due to Melissa having in illustration a couple of years ago a strong connection to the charity.

I found that my simple black ink We then had another meeting drawings worked well for me when lumière had opened and commercially. Therefore this is discussed future projects. This is how I now mainly work, drawing where the idea of the collection of clean black lines with an ink pen Tunbridge Wells Christmas cards and adding minimal colour to each began. image.

Was it difficult to pick the Are there any particular spots to immortalise in print? artists who inspire you?

It didn’t really take for me long as There are many but my main there were lots to choose from! influences are Matisse, Degas and lumière was of course the starting Schiele for their figure and point and then I thought of the portraiture work and Klimt and places that stood out for me as Hockney for their use of colour and landmarks in Tunbridge Wells. The textures. Textiles design is also such Pantiles of course is such a beautiful an inspiration to me so designers spot, and I think one of the unique such as Erdem and Molly Goddard places in the town. The Ivy always and the famous fashion looks beautiful at Christmas time, as does G. Collins & Sons the jewellers photographer Tim Walker are all with its amazing festive displays. The very inspirational. I like when an illustration that I have based on artist’s work is playful and Juliets I think may be my favourite imaginative and I like my work to – it’s somewhere I’ve always been have a similar feel also. with friends, for big celebrations or for a quick cup of tea.

You do a lot of commission work. What do you like What did you enjoy most about this element to your about creating these career?

Christmas cards?

Yes I have recently taken on a For me it was special creating them few different commissions as it made me focus on the place from local businesses. I really we live. Thinking about all of the like to work on different wonderful places we have available projects, as each one has a to us has made different focus, one project me very grateful could be to live here. Also, drawing when I was drawing the illustrations over the summer, thinking of

a building or lighting to then go on to drawing flowers or food. I really do learn something new from each one and also meet lots of different people along the way.

A lot of your prints are inspired by TV programmes - why do you choose this medium and have they proved popular with people?

Initially, I mainly focused on my favourite writers and literary characters. As an artist, you tend to be inspired by the things that surround and inspire you in your own life and I love to read especially the classics such as Bronte and Austen. It is the same with my illustrations that are based on television characters as I always draw what I am enjoying at that moment in time. Therefore popular shows such as Big Little Lies or the recent Little Women film have all been really great to draw and I’ve had a wonderful response from people to them.

All being well for 2021, what are your plans for next year?

Luckily, I already have a couple of projects lined up going into 2021. I recently produced work for the amazing florist Peonies from Pluto in Crowborough and will hopefully be doing more work for them. Also, I’m working with a small children’s brand drawing their clothing collection which I’m very excited about. I would love to work with more small local businesses. I am also currently working on a Valentine’s Day collection which I will show early within the New Year.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

I enjoy that I am able to work doing something that I am so passionate about and that I’m able to share this with others who appreciate it too!

It really means the world when you produce something and other people like it as much as you do!

Find out more about Gemma Marissa’s work via www.gemmamarissa.com or her Instagram account @gemmamarissaillustration SO Magazine | December 2020 | 19

Business

Why mini me fashion is simply child’s play for this talented designer

So Audrey, let’s start with you telling us a bit about yourself…

I grew up in Cape Town, South Africa and came to Britain in my early 20s as a base to explore the world. Twenty years later, I am still here! Tonbridge is my home and I love the area.

Although 2020 has been a very difficult year for most, Audrey Williams of The English Beagle explains why it forced her to diversify and ultimately take her unique fashion business to the next stage of success

20 | December 2020 | SO Magazine

When and why did you launch your business The English Beagle?

A change in my personal life allowed me to quit my job and open my own business in 2017. It took a giant leap of faith in myself and coupled with the support of my family I went for it. I toyed with several directions before deciding on a gift store that supported small British made gifts and hence The English Beagle was born!

Did you have any experience in retail before launching?

Prior to running my own business I’d been working in the fashion and textiles industry. During my last year I was on a project which looked at exporting British-made goods to the Far East and that’s how I discovered many fantastic small brands which I wanted to work with.

At first you concentrated on products for the home, what then made you switch to making clothing?

Two years after launching The English Beagle, my father passed away unexpectedly and I turned to sewing as a therapeutic measure. I dusted off my sewing machines and made a couple of skirts for myself.

At the time, I couldn’t find any that I felt comfortable in so I started making my own. I started looking at sourcing different fabrics and creating various styles and sizes in order to create something comfortable to wear which I could put on in all seasons.

How did your new clothing line grow from being a hobby to a business?

A couple of friends asked me to make skirts for them and it grew from there. When I decided to make some for The English Beagle brand I asked my daughter if I should make ladies or girls skirts and was told to make girls skirts.

When I asked why, I was told ‘Because girls like to twirl!’. So, the first range was just girls’ skirts. I

•

From simple door replacements to complete fitted kitchens

e

Fully installed by local professionals in just a few days

•

Choose from a large selection of doors, worktops and appliances

•

90 showrooms nationwide

D0YOU DREAM

OF A NEW KITCHEN? Che�atrade.com Where reputation matters AVERAGE SCORE 9.7/10

SEE WHAT OUR CUSTOMERS HAVE TO SAY

Visit Our Showroom

40 Grosvenor Road Tunbridge Wells TN1 2AS Call us now for a free estimate: 01892 458 039 www.dreamdoors.co.uk

Business

worked for around a year on both the original English Beagle gifting items and the skirts before I made the decision to concentrate on clothing, introducing adult skirts and leggings, along with mini me versions for kids and kids’ T-shirts and dresses too.

autumn 2020 I finally had my dream business, creating clothing that’s full of comfort and style for both women and children. When I started The English Beagle my aim was to support small British businesses like myself and even though I have swapped to making clothing I follow the same principle in sourcing the fabrics. I use to make the clothes.

Your background in fashion and textiles must have been a big advantage?

We will all be glad to see the back of It has certainly helped, but I also think 2020: How has the Covid pandemic it is growing up with a dressmaker for impacted your work? a mother. She taught me I was still fortunate to be everything I know and is still quite busy at the the person I turn to if I beginning of the first have any sewing lockdown, but as the queries. I studied “I love the whole year progressed, fashion and textiles in creative process. things became quite Cape Town and then From sourcing fabrics difficult and as an moved into a career extra thank you to of clothing to seeing the finished those clients who did manufacture where I product” purchase items I added visited many factories an extra little gift. This over the years. I think this year has been a difficult one is also where I found my and I believe in the products I passion for children’s’ clothing as make, the longevity of them and the well as bold and bright prints. quality of fabrics used, and this USP will make The English Beagle stand Why did you decide to create out. matching clothing for mothers and their children?

What lessons have you learnt I had signed up for a Mother & Baby through it? event and although I was selling baby I learnt to diversify. The fabrics I have and children’s clothing at the time I are not just for skirts and so I have thought to myself ‘What else do you decided to expand the range. When I find at a Mother & Baby event?’ And started the year I was going to just this is when I decided to make a couple of maternity skirts and it just so offer skirts but during the lockdown I sampled some ladies and maternity happened I had a matching set. The leggings and kids’ T shirts and lastly feedback from the show was brilliant little dresses. I had thought of giving so I decided to continue offering up but the support of friends and their ‘Mummy & Me’ twinning sets. Now I words of encouragement have kept offer them in skirts and also leggings me going.

– and funnily the latter now tends to be the more popular of the two!

What inspires your designs?

I do follow fashion and trends and And do you feel like you have hit love to catch the highlights of the your stride now your designs are fashion weeks across the world. This becoming increasingly popular? gives an overall look for the upcoming Yes, I can honestly say that as of

CONTACTS: Instagram: @theenglishbeagle Website: www.theenglishbeagle.com season. But having said that I always aim for my pieces to be timeless. I love Instagram sites like Pantone and Pattern Bank for inspiration, and Pinterest also offers great ideas. And my guilty pleasure is searching the websites of my favourite fabric suppliers late at night, especially for children’s prints.

Do you have any celebrity customers?

I recently received an order for maternity skirts from a high-profile person but I am unable give details at this time. I still pinch myself thinking of the phone call I received. I didn’t come down from cloud nine for a few days!

Yet at the same time, I believe that every person or child who wears my clothes is a celebrity in their own right.

As with every small business, when you receive an order you really do a little happy dance! And with social media, you can see people wear your clothes and it makes me so happy to see customers’ smiles and read their comments.

Have there been any silver linings you can tell us about?

I think the first is diversifying the product range. It has been a very easy transition and because I am using the same fabrics there has been no cost involved. The other silver lining is the support network you build around you shows just how powerful it can be when times are tough. Support and encouragement has come from family, friends and other small business

22 | December 2020 | SO Magazine

THE ENGLISH BEAGLE CLOTHES ARE ALL MADE TO ORDER

owners, both whom I know personally and those I have met through social media.

n The first skirt I made was to suit me, a midi length, more fitted in shape and with an elasticated waist as I don’t like skirts with zips

What do you enjoy most about your job?

I love the whole creative process.

From sourcing fabrics to seeing the finished product. There is something so satisfying about seeing someone in your clothes. And hearing six months later that they love the particular piece makes it a very special thing to do.

n Lots of my friends then asked me to make them skirts so now we have a variety of styles including the relaxed pencil fit ladies’ skirt in midi and knee length. I have also made longer skirts when requested n Each woman has their own unique shape and I believe that our clothes should make us feel comfortable. I have set sizes (S, M, L and XL) but do make XS through to XXL and will ask each customer for her hip and waist measurement to ensure a good fit n Ensuring comfort in the maternity skirts was also crucial so the maternity skirts and leggings are made to sit over the growing bump

A Different Approach...

Inspired Contemporary designs back with traditional joinery made in Britain Anthony Paulo Interiors Showroom, 01732 252 183

4A Belmont High Street, Crowborough, East Sussex, TN6 2QB

Book an appointment to enquire with our designers, make your dreams a reality www.anthonypaulointeriors.co.uk

FOUR FANTASTIC OFFERS Offer 1 For all NHS workers or people with children under the age of 18

Hi, I’m Pa Thy Will B during th and Frank My main

we will write your Will for £29.99 (inc v.a.t) when you donate £5 to the NHS Charities Covid-19 Appeal.

Wills, Tru Funeral p

Offer 2 Single Person and Couples Wills Single Will £139 when you donate £5 to the NHS Charities Covid-19 Appeal.

Couples Wills £259 when you donate £5 to the NHS Charities Covid-19 Appeal.

Offer 3

It has alw folk the s and famo as follows

1. All of m when y

2. I offer £29.99 advanc the Pu funeral just £19 the est

Are you over 60 and considering Power of Attorney?

3. I am 10 I work a

If so, we will provide you with A registered Lasting Power of Attorney for Health and Welfare + A registered Lasting Power of Attorney for Property and Finance + A Living Will/Advance directive All for just £495 inc v.a.t and all OPG* fees when you donate £10 to the NHS Charities Covid-19 Appeal.

1. Living w

Offer 4

* OPG = Office of the Public Guardian

Prevent your home ending up in the wrong hands with a Property Trust

Many peo

2. Having the futu

3. How m probate

4. Protect to a sp their de

5. How to their in

A correctly set up Property Trust guarantees to prevent: • Your property having to go through probate • Generational inheritance tax • Your children getting nothing if you die and your spouse remarries • Your home being used to fund your care in the future† Just £1995 including v.a.t. and all legal fees and we will also provide a brand new Will Free of Charge for each person. A trust insurance for £9.99 per month will also need to be taken out to keep the trust up to date every year.

Bright Ea Pulborou

† Remember if you have reason to believe that you my go into care soon or if your sole reason for implementing this package is simply to avoid paying

foreseeable care fees and you are not implementing it for any other reasons such as protecting your family against divorce, bankruptcy, marriage after death or generational inheritance tax then you could be accused of deliberate deprivation of assets.

Call now to arrange your free telephone consultation

Thy Will Be Done is a U

ABOUT ME AND THY WILL BE DONE Hi, I’m Paul Blackmoore and I’m the sole Director of Thy Will Be Done. I’m currently working from home during the lockdown with my 2 little helpers, Benny and Frankie who are both resuce French Bulldogs.

My main areas of expertise are;

n you

Wills, Trusts, Lasting Powers of Attorney, Prepaid Funeral plans and Probate.

It has always been my mission to bring to everyday folk the same protection opportunities that the rich and famous have had for generations. I achieve this as follows: 1. All of my advice is free at all times – you only pay when you engage me to work for you.

S

NHS

2. I offer exceptional value for money – Wills from £29.99 - 2 Lasting Powers of Attorney with an advance directive including vat and all Office of the Public Guardian fees just £495 - Pre-paid funeral plans from just £9 per week – Trusts from just £199 and I conduct probate for just 1.75% of the estate value plus vat.

3. I am 100% transparent with my pricing and how I work at all times.

Many people are concerned about: 1. Living with partners but not being married.

lfare + nance +

2. Having to use their homes to pay for care fees in the future.

nate

3. How much their families may need to pay in probate and inheritance tax fees.

ublic Guardian

4. Protecting their children if they leave everything to a spouse and the spouse then remarries after their death.

5. How to ensure their children will not lose half of their inheritance if they divorced after inheriting.

6. How to protect grandchildren or vulnerable beneficiaries.

I am able to deliver solutions that are 100% legally effective in overcoming all of these problems and many more besides.

To help with fees I am also able to offer guaranteed interest free credit without the need for any credit checks to make protecting your family more affordable.

If you would like to have a chat with me just give my reception team a call on your local number below and they will book you in a convenient time slot for you to have your FREE telephone consultation with me.

Take care and chat soon

Paul, Benny & Frankie

www.thywill.co.uk Brighton 977385 • Chichester 278303 • Crawley 278453 • Dorking 898089 • Eastbourne 364029 East Grinstead 457006 • Hastings 532029 • Haywards Heath 682047 • Horsham 458042 Pulborough 368003 • Redhill 423001 • Tunbridge Wells 278109 • Uckfield 278373 • Worthing 649021

Charge

the trust

avoid paying marriage after

THE

BRITISH WILLS AND PROBATE AWARDS

2020 WILL WRITING FIRM OF THE YEAR

HIGHLY COMMENDED

Thy Will Be Done is a trading style of Thy Will Be Done (Spain) Ltd. Registered in the UK at Companies House under number 10791190.

UK trading address: The Mill Building, 31 Chatsworth Road, Worthing, West Sussex, BN11 1LY.

During the COVID-19 epidemic we are providing our services as follows: 1. We will conduct your consultation over the phone 2. You will be able to pay by card or by bank transfer 3. You will receive your drafts within 48 hours by e-mail or post 4. You can change these as many times as required for free 5. Once approved your legal documents will be sent to you by recorded delivery 6. You must then sign the documents and have them witnessed as soon as you can

Gift Guide

Seasonal Splendour

Why shop big brands when you can source all of these premium Christmas gifts from your computer and also importantly support local? Happy shopping

HOT STUFF: Fine bone china Prawn Heart and Lobster mugs by Lucy Clayton, £28 for a pair or sold individually at £18, www.etsy.com/uk/shop/LucyClaytonArt

FACE VALUE: How gorgeous is this make up bag – which comes in small and large – and is made from left over silk and also silk lined? Prices are £15 and £18, Haines Collection, www.hainescollection.co.uk FESTIVE FRAGRANCE: We love this limited edition Christmas candle, complementary diffuser and wax melts from The Wells Candle Company, all £15 each www.thewellscandleco. co.uk (picture by Emily Harding)

SWITCHED ON: Treat your home to one of Willis & Bloom’s gorgeous lampshades. You can choose from a variety of their hand drawn signature fabrics but we love this bee print, £48, www.willisbloom.com

GLASSWORKS: Talented artist Claudia Wiegand who now boasts a shop and gallery on Monson Road has plenty to please including a stunning collection of handmade glass lanterns.

For prices and sizes visit www.claudiawiegand.co.uk

SWEET AS HONEY: Olive wood honey pot with drizzler £17.50, Fullers, www.fullers-tw.co.uk

EVERY PICTURE TELLS A STORY: talented local artist Elaine Gill has lots of wonderful artwork to collect including these local National Trust properties and Christmas cards of Tunbridge Wells.

She also takes private commissions too. See www.elainegill.co.uk 26 | December 2020 | SO Magazine

ARTISAN GIFTS

Gift Guide

EAR, EAR: Selma earrings, £30, Catherine De Crèvecoeur, www.catherinedc.com

GEM OF A JEWEL: Siberian emerald Moonscape ring made with 9 ct yellow gold and Siberian emeralds in signature moonscape design, £1,200, Vanessa Heaney, 07779905522 Vanessa.heaney@gmail.com https://www.instagram.com/ vanessaheaneyjewellery/

PRECIOUS METAL: This Ya Ya London pendant won’t hang around: £82, available from The Silver Sheep, Chapel Place or www.thesilversheep.co.uk

SCENT OF A WOMAN: Fragrance fans will love The Perfume Studio’s selection of bespoke scent kits so you can create the olfactory smell of your dreams. Prices start from £49. See www.theperfumestudio.com

FASHION & BEAUTY LET’S GET PHYSICAL: We love the new work wear from local fitness guru Sarah Gorman. This sweatshirt will effortlessly take from the barre to bar (when they reopen), £44, www.SarahGorman.fit

STAR PURCHASE: We hope we find this stunning Sparkly Lightning bracelet, £35 by Bella Jane Jewellery in our stocking this Christmas, www.bellajanejewellrey.co.uk

DON’T SWEAT IT: If you’re looking for sweatshirts that are more luxe than lazy then have a look at these – available in Airforce Blue, Camel and Olive Green. Made from 80% cotton and 20% polyester (to retain the shape) they’re priced at £45, each and available from TWSeven, www.twseven.co.uk

TIMELY PIECE: This AVI-8 watchf will donate profits to Help for Heroes charity, £225, available via Click & Collect at Goldsmiths in Tunbridge Wells.

SO Magazine | December 2020 | 27

ADVERTISING

REDUNDANCY: Focusing on the Facts

Tunbridge Wells Employment Law specialist solicitor Kate Lawson of Element Law often advises employees on their rights in connection with redundancy, including what redundancy means and how the redundancy process works.

I have been put ‘at risk’ of redundancy. What does that mean?

This means your employer has identified that your role may be selected for redundancy. It does not mean the decision has been made as no decision should be made until consultation has taken place with you. There may also be other vacancies internally that are suitable for you. Therefore even if your role is redundant you may not be made redundant. Consultation

28 | December 2020 | SO Magazine

should include discussion about any such roles.

What are the key factors of a fair redundancy programme?

The redundancy must be genuine, and not a ‘sham’ being used to conceal another reason for dismissal.

The correct pooling and selection process is required, unless your role is a genuinely unique role.

A genuine individual consultation process must be undertaken. Collective consultation may also be required if 20 or more employees are being made redundant from one site in a 90-day period.

The employer must comply with their obligation in respect of making efforts to find you

other roles internally if suitable internal vacancies exist.

What payments am I entitled to on redundancy?

If the redundancy is fair, then your entitlement is to your notice period, or notice pay, and a statutory redundancy payment. This is calculated using a multiplier based on age, length of service and weekly pay capped at £538 per week.

No redundancy pay is payable to an employee with less than 2 years’ service in their employment.

You may be entitled to a higher redundancy payment if your employer has a contractual enhanced redundancy payments scheme in place.

If your redundancy is unfair and you have more than 2 years’ service, then you could claim your loss of earnings from the end of the notice period or period covered by notice pay.

This is subject to the duty to mitigate your loss by actively seeking work. The maximum award for unfair dismissal is the lower of 1 year’s salary or

With 20 years’ experience as an Employment Law specialist solicitor, Kate Lawson of Element Law provides effective and tailored advice to employers, and to employees, taking care to understand their specific situations and needs. Kate also provides training to business owners, HR and managers on key employment law matters.

You can also hear Kate’s podcasts on Employment Law matters by finding the link on her website www.elementlaw.co.uk Kate can be contacted on 01892 516216 or katelawson@elementlaw.co.uk

£88,519, plus any applicable statutory redundancy payment.

Kate considers that “Being told your role may be made redundant can be very upsetting, and a redundancy process is a stressful time. However it is important that employees stay attentive to the redundancy process, for example by taking notes of meetings, checking as far possible the facts and figures presented to them, proactively suggesting alternatives to their redundancy, looking for internal vacancies, and being aware of any enhanced payments scheme that may be available.”

An employer or employee going through the redundancy process who is concerned about fairness should seek advice from an Employment Law specialist.

WEB: www.brewin.co.uk/royal-tunbridge-wells CALL US ON: 01892 739 580

PROTECTING YOUR PENSION DURING DIFFICULT TIMES The uncertainty and volatility caused by the ongoing Covid-19 outbreak may have you wondering how to protect your pension, particularly if you are approaching retirement.

an income from their investments.

Keeping your pension invested in stocks and shares may give it the chance to recover any value lost during the pandemic, although there are no guarantees of returns.

HERE ARE SOME FACTORS TO TAKE INTO CONSIDERATION BEFORE YOU MAKE ANY MAJOR CHANGES.

You should maintain a defensive core However, beware that taking on more risk in the run up to retirement could cause problems – as a general rule of thumb, you should only opt for riskier assets if you have plenty of time to go before you retire.

You can stay invested into retirement Since the introduction of pension freedoms in April 2015, you are no longer compelled to move from high-risk to low-risk assets in the years before retirement.

A growing number of retirees are remaining invested, while drawing

Your best bet to safeguard against losses is to hold a range of diversified assets, including bond funds and gilts as a defensive core.

Seeking advice on how to balance your portfolio can help ensure you

have the right mix of investments for you.

How to de-risk your portfolio If you are in the process of de-risking your pension portfolio you could, for example, take gains from the best-performing investments to buy more fixedincome investments.

For example, this could be moving from holding 70% stocks and shares, and 30% bonds within your portfolio, to 60% invested in bonds, with the remainder in the stock market.

If you are seeking income You may need to broaden your search away from the UK if you are seeking income from your pension investments,

The value of investments and any income from them can fall and you may get back less than you invested. Past performance is not a guide to future performance and performance. Opinions expressed in this document are not necessarily the views held throughout Brewin Dolphin Ltd. This information is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended as investment advice. No investment is suitable in all cases and if you have any doubts as to an investment’s suitability then you should contact us. If you invest in currencies other than your own, fluctuations in currency value will mean that the value of your investment will move independently of the underlying asset. The information contained in this document is believed to be reliable and accurate, but without further investigation cannot be warranted as to accuracy or completeness.

CONTACT:

Graeme Hayden • Graeme.hayden@brewin.co.uk • Tel. 01892 739580 Louise Shaw • Louise.shaw@brewin.co.uk • Tel. 01892 739580

with many companies suspending or cutting dividends during the pandemic. You could also consider alternative assets, such as property, infrastructure, and some private equity firms.

Avoid panic decisions This is an uncertain time, given the impact of wider economic events on your pension’s performance.

An adviser can help with any concerns you may have about how to manage your money and ensure your retirement plans remain resilient.

Gift Guide

EPICUREAN DELIGHTS:

HEAVENLY HAMPER: Mereworth Wines Christmas Lockdown Gift Pack includes a bottle of their awardwinning English sparkling wine, tow bottles of gin, four Marourde drinks, 6 IPA and 6 Kentish Cider, £110, www. mereworth.co.uk

MEAL DEAL: Bespoke gift vouchers are available from The Warren Restaurant Tunbridge Wells, www.thewarren.restaurant

WE’LL DRINK TO THAT: Bespoke wine hampers, prices start from £15, Hattons, www.hattonsrtwstore.co.uk

30 | December 2020 | SO Magazine

CHEESE? Yes please: Always Time for Cheese and Wine - Cheese Hampers, £29.85, Smart Gift Shop Solutions, based on Colebrook Road, Tunbridge Wells, www. smartgiftsolutions. co.uk 0870 609 3448

CHRISTMAS CHEER: Pipehouse Gin, available in Cucumber & Earl Grey and Grapefruit & Thyme, £39, www. pipehousegin.com

A GOOD ROASTING: Tunbridge Wells Coffee Roastery’s special Christmas Roast – a medium to dark roasted coffee has a warmth of festive spice with notes of orange zest, red berries and dark chocolate, from £6.85, www.tunbridgewellscoffeeroastery.co.uk

SWEET SPOT: Advent Calendar, £12.50, Temper Temper, www.tempertemperchocolate.co.uk

RED ALERT: 3 pint enamel jug, perfect for mulled wine – various colours available, £36, Le Petit Jardin, www.le-petit-jardin.com

HALLIWELL

A wholly-owned subsidiary of Turn2us

Quality is at the heart of everything we do. Halliwell provides all of the equipment and facilities that one would expect from a modern day care facility, and more.

Including award-winning restaurant-style dining, generously-sized bedrooms with en suite facilities, landscaped gardens, a beauty salon and a fully-licensed bar.

Halliwell is a modern, 64-bed purpose built care home set in beautiful grounds on the outskirts of Tunbridge Wells and offers a home from home for discerning guests who appreciate the comfort, quality and exceptional care that we offer.

All rooms have en suite facilities, many with walk in showers and views over the park and beautiful landscaped gardens, and provide nursing and personal care on a permanent or short stay basis. Halliwell has been awarded Platinum Status, the highest level achievable, under the prestigious Gold Standard Framework in recognition of its excellent end of life care.

Open to visits subject to Public Health England advice.

Our home is open to taking admissions. If you are interested in moving into Halliwell and would like to speak with the General Manager, we are able to offer a virtual tour and to speak face-to-face via WhatsApp or Facetime, to discuss any queries or questions you may have. If you would like to book an appointment please contact Eileen Allison, our General Manager, on Tel: 01892 525909 or email at: enquiries.halliwell@efhl.co.uk

HALLIWELL

Kingswood Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN2 4UN Admission Enquiries: 01892 249042 www.efhl.co.uk

lifestyle

HOW TO CREATE A SHOWSTOPPING

Christmas

flower display

Expert Vicky Wilson offers a step-by-step guide to combining foliage and berries from your garden with flowers for a stunning display

F

estive flowers are a must in the run-up to Christmas, but how can you make the most of what you have in your own garden to add interest to a rich display?

A variety of foliage and berries foraged from your own plot can add a seasonal accent to Christmas flowers, says Vicky Wilson, product design manager at Interflora.

“With just a few winter blooms and some foraged foliage, it’s easier than you’d think to transform your hallway, living room or anywhere

32 | December 2020 | SO Magazine

else that’s in need of a few good tidings this season,” she says.

She offers the following step-bystep for a showstopping Christmas floral display...

1. WHAT YOU’LL NEED 3 red roses 1 red skimmia 2 pink snowberry 2 red spray roses Scots pine clippings 1 eucalyptus 3 salal tips (also known as Gaultheria Shallon)

PLANNING YOUR FINANCIAL JOURNEY WITH PANORAMIC WEALTH

T

he most important part of our lives, as 2020 has shown, is to live it to the fullest. The most important factor of this is not money, instead, it is you and your life. Our philosophy at Panoramic Wealth is that money is only the vehicle you use to achieve what it is you wish to accomplish; see places you want to see and make endless memories.

Pensions, Investments, Protection and Mortgages themselves are not what makes us as humans tick but what proper planning can do is allow us to do the things we love. We have had clients travel the world, retire early and even buy boats which is infinitely more impactful on their lives than any financial product could ever be.

Financial planning is a journey, and we see it as such. We work with you throughout your lifetime to ensure you are in the best position you can both financially and as for your mind through peace of mind.

As a family owned firm, we value retaining complete control over our own destiny when much of the wider financial planning market is being consolidated leaving fewer bespoke firms such as ourselves remaining.

Part of this has been the consistency and loyalty of our team as together as a team of 6, have worked with each other cumulatively for over 100 years.

We have actually been involved in the family business environment since the 1930’s. The family ownership element means we empathise with Owner Manager Business and understand work very rarely ends promptly at 5 o’clock Friday just to start again at 9 on Monday morning when you are your business.

Looking after those who own their own business is a particular strength of ours. Starting and building

Ross Jefferies & Gary Jefferies

a business can be a challenging time but also quite often a lonely experience so having someone there to guide you through this period of time can be crucial.

It may be that you are at the other end of the process and are looking to exit the business or pass onto a succession plan and now more than ever will it be important to have a plan of action going forwards. Regardless of where you may

be through this journey of owning your own business, one thing is the same; making the right decisions at the right time is what will determine how well it works for you and your family. We have guided many existing clients through this whole process and understand what is required for you to flourish as a business owner.

Not only do we guide clients through their own financial journey, but we work closely with Solicitors and Accountants and their clients. Through these partnerships we can ensure that everyone who comes to us are able to have all aspects of their lives looked after properly giving true peace of mind.

One further area where we differ to many other financial planning firms is that we are able to cater for those at the beginning of their financial journey.

As a financial planning firm with multigenerational advisers, we are perfectly positioned to empathise with clients of differing ages. This is especially prevalent when it comes to helping First Time Buyers get onto the property ladder and

first-time investors who are often seen as not profitable enough for many other businesses turning younger clients away.

Even though we have clients across the country, we centre ourselves around Tunbridge Wells and have continued to support Bells Yew Green Cricket Club and Trinity Theatre. With the town being so central to us and our beliefs, we even have had Chris Burke, a long standing friend illustrate our headshots for our website. A Tunbridge Wells native himself, next time you are at Tunbridge Wells train station make sure to have a look at the 35 metre long mural depicting the town’s history.

Those we work with are and always will be the most important part of Panoramic Wealth and part of this is we have been recording interview styled podcasts in conjunction with Weald Productions.

Topics we have covered included the how we can help Owner Manager Businesses, the full implications of using the Bank of Mum and Dad (BomaD) and examining when you can retire and how it is best to do so.

If you would like to know more about how we can help you through your financial lifestyle to suit you, please call Panoramic Wealth today on 01892 595555 or email journey@panoramicwealth.co.uk.

lifestyle

Usually the pine, eucalyptus, skimmia and snowberries can be foraged from a garden, but you might need to call on your local florist for the roses, which will be the signature blooms.

Lay all the stems out on a table you’d like to use and prepare the stems by removing any leaves and thorns on the bottom half.

2. WHERE TO START Take a foliage stem in your hand, holding the stem roughly halfway up, and one of your focal flowers. This is the start of your arrangement.

As you pick up and add more stems, hold each at a slight angle, so your bouquet starts to build in a natural way.

3. MAKE IT EVEN Alternate your flowers and leaves, adding a flower stem and a foliage stem, turning the bouquet each time you add one.

4. MAKE FLOWERS THE SHOWSTOPPER Make sure the flower heads are positioned slightly above the foliage, so they really show themselves off.

For a really stunning arrangement, add flowers in a triangular pattern. It might sound strange, but this means each flower type is evenly distributed through the whole bouquet.

5. SECURE THE BOUQUET Once you’ve added all the flowers and foliage, tie the bouquet exactly where you’ve been holding the stems.

Once you have secured the bouquet with string, cut each stem at a slight angle using a pair of sharp scissors or secateurs. Hold the bouquet up to the vase to help you determine how much of the stems you need to chop off.

Fill a clean vase with water and pop your bouquet in. You may want to tweak it slightly if there are any wayward stems or foliage that aren’t quite in the right place, before finding the perfect spot to show off your efforts.

For more information visit interflora.co.uk.

34 | December 2020 | SO Magazine

Secure your financial future Charles Stanley is one of the UK’s leading Wealth Management firms, providing bespoke investment portfolios and tailored financial advice to help you achieve your financial goals.

The Tunbridge Wells branch of Charles Stanley has nine highly qualified Investment Managers with over 270 years of combined experience, ready to help you and your family create a more secure financial future.

Book your free consultation today 01892 883 987 charles-stanley.co.uk/tunbridge-wells-office

The value of investments can fall as well as rise. Investors may get back less than invested.

Charles Stanley & Co. Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

Hypnotherapy

Karen Martin Hypnotherapist

“Positive thinking really should be followed up with positive doing...”

This month our resident hypnotherapist Karen Martin explores the issue of positive manifestation and how it can help you live a better life

W

kind of special power only available to the enlightened.

Decades ago, American author Louise Hay built a publishing empire on the power of positive thinking.

This ‘queen of affirmations’ took her inspiration from French psychologist Emile Coue who, over a century ago, coined the phrase ‘Every day in every way I’m getting better and better’.

Coue worked with hypnotic autosuggestion techniques and made several academic studies of outcomes. What he demonstrated in his research is that the practice of thinking aspirational thoughts with the purpose of making them real, or what is now described as manifesting, works.

We can now observe through THE MANIFESTATION scanning technology how neurological GAME change is possible by There’s a witchy vibe repeatedly focusing amongst the young on positive intentions. manifesters who This, in turn, gives us reference the The point of Self the cognitive ability universe, vibrations, Care Sundays and motivation to astrology, tarot, spirit take action to achieve guides and all kinds Box is to back our goals. And voila! of woo woo to off a bit from Magic happens. create better grades, Except it’s not that attract boys (it’s that full life and easy.

Coue also mostly girls who play the manifestation carve out a bit of identified what he the Law of game), lose weight time just for you called Reversed Effort. or make money.

The most obvious They attract example of this is hundreds of when an insomniac tries to go to thousands of followers (and sleep and fails because their advertising revenue) by selling the subconscious focus is on not dream that life can be better if you sleeping. And a dieter is also prone think happy thoughts. to obsess about being overweight If I’m sounding a bit cynical here, and that’s how they stay. it’s because I am. But only because As a nation of negative thinkers, of the million different ways we are predisposed to fall foul of manifestation is dressed up to tap the Law of Reversed Effort. And into people’s beliefs and then this is compounded by the commercially marketed as some ith a somewhat strange festive season ahead of us, lacking the usual partying and excess, it’s no wonder that we’re looking to manifest a happier Christmas and New Year that’s better than the old one.

The compelling message of ‘The Secret’ was that anyone can use the ‘law of attraction’ to manifest anything they want. And it made its author a fortune. In effect, it promised a secular version of a free pass to heaven on earth. Now, the Tik Tok generation of influencers and vloggers has taken up the mantle of manifestation.

HOW TO GET IN CONTACT WITH KAREN: www.hypnotherapykent.co.uk karen@hypnotherapykent.co.uk

36 | December 2020 | SO Magazine

Hypnotherapy

perception of the power of positive thinking. Anyone who has a stressful job knows that thinking happy thoughts doesn’t make it less stressful. And thinking happy thoughts when you hand your notice in and leave the stress behind makes you broke and unhappy unless you act fast to find a better job.

Positive thinking has to be followed up with positive doing. Furthermore, to act positively we need to feel positive about our ability to achieve our goals.

In other words, the power of positive feelings is the game changer.

Positivity gurus like Tony Robbins preach how a success mindset can transform us into gorgeous, wealthy, deliriously happy masters of the universe like them. Years ago when I was still doing a lot of training as I built my hypnotherapy practice, I found a lot of inspiration from these charismatic motivational speakers, of which there are now thousands on Ted Talks.

Back then, talks and training seminars were live rather than online and I got the chance to observe how these skilled communicators could work a room.

And boy could they manifest a lot of cash into their own pockets. I stopped going when I heard an American in a smart suit exhort a hall of about 3000 people to remortgage their houses to sign up for an eye-wateringly expensive course on how to become a billionaire.

Needless to say, I never made the billionaire grade. But I have become very skilled at helping people bypass the reverse effort, or self-sabotage, caused by their limiting beliefs. Here is a practical and realistic seven step guide to manifesting life enhancing goals.

These steps will keep you on a path to success and help you to stay focused on your dream destination:

STEP THREE:

STEP ONE:

Get busy (tap into your power) It’s easy to get stuck on step two unless you take action. Commit to doing something every day to bring you closer to your goals. If you’re stuck for ideas, read up on the subject, do some Google research or sign up for some training. Contact people who can help you. Plan a strategy and put a timeline on it. Now the gift idea has been embedded, do whatever it takes to make the present giver realise how deserving you are of their generosity.

Be clear and specific about what you want Make a list of whatever you want to achieve, acquire or become. A bit like writing a CV or job specification for the best life possible.

You can illustrate it with a ‘vision board’ of images or statements which represent the life you want to live and lay them out like a jigsaw so you can see how they might fit together. If you want something for Christmas, check price and availability online and decide who might buy it for you.

STEP TWO: Get focused (ask the Universe) This might not seem particularly productive but, when you put your list or vision board in plain sight, every time you clap eyes on it you’ll be directlng your emotions towards how it would feel to be there, doing or having the life you want to live. Use your imagination to mentally rehearse those feelings. This increases the desire and motivation to get there. Drop lots of hints to your chosen Christmas gift giver.

STEP FOUR:

STEP FIVE: Measure your progress (give thanks and show gratitude) So many people I see will, at first, not notice how much they’re achieving. This is often because they’ve felt ‘stuck’ or powerless to change for a long time or don’t believe they deserve success. Make sure you’re ticking off the victories, big and small and start nurturing an attitude of appreciation for yourself and the results you’re achieving. Show appreciation for the gift you’re hoping to receive as if it’s already wrapped and below the tree…

STEP SEVEN: STEP SIX: Stick with it (keep your vibration high) The commitment you make in step three is maintained when you are enjoying the energy of productivity and progress. It’s exciting to feel like you’re getting somewhere.

Completing challenging tasks boosts confidence and gives us special powers of determination, tenacity and impulse control. Have a rummage around any hiding places to check that your chosen present has been purchased.

Clear any resistance (don’t fight the Universe) Don’t let past experiences get in the way. We tend to move away from anything which may have previously caused us emotional pain or stress. Anxiety is a normal warning system to safeguard us against failure or other threats to our wellbeing.

Most worthwhile achievements require us to risk pushing through anxiety by tackling its cause rather than avoiding it. Backing off or doing nothing to solve the problem gets you nowhere. Don’t

Believe in yourself (trust the law of attraction) Every time you get discouraged, frustrated or impatient, play to your strengths and focus on solutions. Keep a mental inventory of your talents and abilities and apply your best skills to achieving progress. If you think you can, you’re probably right. If you think you can’t…..find a different way.

Treat failures or obstacles and challenges and learning opportunities. Send ‘buy now’ links to the prospective Christmas present purchaser.

accept second best – regift or return anything that doesn’t meet your requirements.

If you follow these seven steps, you’ll avoid the positive thinking pitfall of expecting the woo woo to drop wonderful things into your lap without any effort on your part. That way lies depression and inertia, the opposite of the fulfilment and joy that comes from investing time and energy into something important and life changing.

Discipline and the ability to anticipate the pleasure of delayed gratification are skills we have to learn. It helps to have an appetite

for whatever you want to achieve. It’s more rewarding for someone raised in poverty to work hard to earn money than it is for a rich person to count money they didn’t work for. It helps to be hungry because overnight success takes time and passion.

As we put this pandemic stricken year behind us, think about creating your own manifestive manifesto and, by next Christmas, who knows where you’ll be. Wishing you a merry manifestive Christmas and a successful New Year empowered with positive feelings.

SO Magazine | December 2020 | 37

ADVERTISING

WHAT DO YOU WANT TO CHANGE IN YOUR LIFE?

Quality Serv

L if

WHAT IS STOPPING YOU?

0%

ice

10

Personal Coach

et

im

eG

u a ra nt e e

I am an Accredited Coach with a passion for helping people make meaningful change and to achieve their goals.

I can help you stop procrastinating, to refine your focus and to clear away the noise and doubt around your future.

The results can be transformational and flow into every area of your life.

Bespoke Packages Face to Face or Remote Free 30 minute Taster Session Contact Tom on email at hello@londonleadershipcoach.com or message him on 07495 748 634 www.londonleadershipcoach.com

• Stylish • Unique Range

• Made to Measure • Lifetime Guarantee

01892 575 858 justshutters.co.uk

Your 38 | December 2020 | SO Magazine

local

T2791 JS 2019 OCT SOMag 125x300.indd 1

Shutter Specialists 19/09/2019 08:22

Video calls with loved ones, chatting to friends in the coffee shop, or having a stretch in an exercise class are just some of the things residents have enjoyed, and continue to enjoy, at Weald Heights care home. Add to that delicious home cooked food from our in-house chef, tailored care delivered by our fully trained and experienced team, the highest standards of safety and cleanliness, and you can see why we’re the ideal choice.

To arrange a virtual tour or one-to-one video chat, please call 01732 806484 or email amelia.moore2@careuk.com

WELCOMING NEW RESIDENTS Weald Heights care home Bourchier Close, Sevenoaks TN13 1PD careuk.com/weald-heights

Food

Marcus masters the art of a marvellous Christmas menu

Masterchef judge and now local resident of Tunbridge Wells, Marcus Wareing, shares his best festive dishes for SO readers MARMALADE AND EARL GREY TEAGLAZED HAM SERVES: 6–8, WITH LEFTOVERS | PREP TIME: 15 MINUTES | COOKING TIME: 2 HOURS 2–3kg middle-cut unsmoked gammon, knuckle on 1 onion, quartered 2 carrots, halved 2 celery sticks 2 bay leaves 1 tsp black peppercorns 4 cloves 4 tbsp Earl Grey tea leaves, or 8 tea bags 200g marmalade 1. Place the gammon in a large saucepan. Add the onion, carrots, celery, bay leaves, peppercorns and cloves. Cover with cold water and place over medium heat. Bring to a gentle simmer, skimming off any scum that rises to the surface, and cook for 1½ hours. Turn the heat off and allow the gammon to sit in the liquid for a further 30 minutes.

Remove from the pan and leave until cool enough to handle. Strain off the liquid and keep it for soup (bearing in mind it will be rather salty).

2. Once the ham is cool enough to touch, place it on your chopping board and cut away the skin, leaving a 1cm-thick layer of fat intact on the ham. Gently score the fat with crisscross marks to create a diamond pattern.

3. Preheat the oven to 190°C/170°C fan/gas 5 and line a roasting tray with foil.

4. Pour 100ml water into a small saucepan and bring to the boil. Add the tea leaves or bags and remove from the heat. Leave to infuse for 6 minutes then strain into a bowl.

Add the marmalade to the bowl and mix well.

Recipes extracted from Marcus Everyday by Marcus Wareing, with photography by Susan Bell (HarperCollins, £25) 40 | December 2020 | SO Magazine

5. Transfer the gammon to the lined roasting tray and brush it liberally with the marmalade mix (keep a little back to use for a second glaze in the process). Place in the oven for 20 minutes, brush with the remaining glaze and return to the oven for a further 10 minutes, until the skin is crisp. 6.

Remove from the oven, cover with the foil and leave to rest for 20 minutes before carving.

Food

QUICK GIN-CURED SALMON WITH HORSERADISH AND PARSNIP SERVES: 6–8 | PREP TIME: 15 MINUTES, PLUS CURING | COOKING TIME: ABOUT 10 MINUTES

QUINCE, ROSEMARY AND HONEY TRIFLE SERVES: 8 | PREP TIME: 30 MINUTES, PLUS CHILLING, COOLING AND SETTING COOKING TIME: 1¾ HOURS 250g honey 1 sprig of rosemary 2 large quince, peeled, quartered and cored (550g) 3 gelatine leaves 200g Madeira cake, diced into 2cm cubes 25ml dry sherry FOR THE CUSTARD 150ml milk 150ml double cream 3 sprigs of rosemary 4 egg yolks 50g caster sugar 2 gelatine leaves FOR THE CREAM 150g double cream 100g crème fraîche finely grated zest of 1 clementine 1. Place the honey and rosemary in a medium saucepan. Add 750ml warm water, bring to the boil then reduce to a gentle simmer and add the quince.

Cover and simmer for 1½ hours, until the quince are soft.

2. Strain the quince over a heatproof bowl and pour the liquid back into the saucepan.

Return to the heat and simmer for a further 10–15 minutes.

Pour the liquid from the saucepan into a measuring jug – you want 400ml. Return this to the pan, setting the rest aside.

3. When the quince are cool enough to touch, cut them into 2cm dice and refrigerate.

4. Soak the 3 gelatine leaves in a shallow bowl of cold water for 5 minutes.

5. Bring the 400ml of syrup to the boil. Squeeze the water from the gelatine and stir it into the hot liquid until completely dissolved. Strain into a clean, small heatproof container and refrigerate for 1–3 hours until set.

6. To make the custard, put the milk, cream and rosemary sprigs in a medium saucepan. Bring to a gentle simmer then remove from the heat. Cover with clingfilm and leave to infuse for 20 minutes. Strain, discarding the rosemary, and pour the infused milk back into the saucepan. Bring back to just below the boil, stirring frequently.

7. Put the egg yolks and sugar in a mixing bowl and whisk together. Slowly pour the hot milk mixture into the bowl, whisking as you do so.

8. Pour the mixture back into the pan and cook over very low heat, stirring continuously, until the mixture coats the back of a wooden spoon. While the custard is cooking, soak the 2 leaves of gelatine in a shallow bowl of cold water for 5 minutes.

10g butter 1 tbsp olive oil 2 small parsnips, peeled and grated (250g) 25ml milk 1 tbsp horseradish sauce 2 tbsp crème fraîche 150g piece of boneless and skinless salmon fillet 1 tbsp rock salt finely grated zest of ½ orange 25ml gin 3 slices pumpernickel bread, toasted 2 tbsp finely chopped dill sea salt and freshly ground black pepper 1. Heat the butter and olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.

When hot, add the grated parsnip.

Season well with salt and pepper and cook for around 5 minutes until golden and soft. Add the milk and bring to a simmer for 5 minutes.

Transfer the parsnip to a small blender or food processor. Add the horseradish and crème fraîche and blitz until smooth.

2. Slice the salmon as thinly as possible across the fillet (against the grain). Lay the slices in the bottom of a shallow dish. Mix the rock salt and orange zest together then rub it onto the sliced salmon. Leave to sit for 10 minutes, then add the gin and leave for a further 10 minutes. Rinse the cure off the salmon under cold running water then pat the salmon slices dry with kitchen paper.

3. Cut the pumpernickel bread into rectangles approximately 6 x 2cm.

You should get around 20 slices.

4. Spread the parsnip cream onto the slices of bread. Place a piece of salmon on top and finish with the chopped dill.

9. Squeeze the water from the gelatine and stir it into the hot custard until completely dissolved. Strain through a sieve, cover and chill in the fridge.

10. For the cream, whisk the cream, crème fraîche and clementine zest together in a bowl until stiff peaks form.

11. To assemble the trifle, place the quince, diced sponge and sherry in your trifle bowl along with 200ml of the reserved quince syrup (any leftovers make a great addition to a champagne cocktail or gin and tonic, by the way). Cut the quince jelly into cubes and add it to the bowl.

Mix very gently. Whisk the custard then pour it on top.

Finish with the cream and serve straight away or refrigerate for up to 4 hours before serving.

SO Magazine | December 2020 | 41

Drink

Fabulous festive D tipples

Tis the season to be jolly and as our drinks editor James Viner reveals, there’s plenty of brilliant local drinks companies who can help Christmas be just that little bit more merrier after a tough year…

ue to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic we can all expect smaller family get-togethers this year, but that doesn’t mean there can’t be merriment this Christmas.

Just because we’re smaller in numbers doesn’t mean we can’t enjoy a warming glass of something delectable or a flute full of fizz as both are key ingredients for the upcoming festive season.

If you’re staying at home for Christmas instead of travelling hundreds of miles to see relatives why not also keep your tipples of choice closer to home by selecting some of these delicious

LIMITED RELEASE MASTHOUSE WHISKY SETS SAIL FROM COPPER RIVET DISTILLERY, CHATHAM Copper Rivet Distillery Masthouse Single Malt Whisky, Chatham, Kent

TWO BRILLIANT LOCAL TRADITIONAL METHOD SPARKLING WINES

£45, Master of Malt & Copper Rivet Distillery, 50cl, Alc 45% Times may change but the dockyard spirit endures. Wellknown for its Dockyard Gin and Vela Vodka, Copper Rivet distillery, housed in the historic pump house no. 5 in Kent’s historic Chatham Dockyard, has released Masthouse Single Malt Whisky, its inaugural singleestate, single harvest, copper pot-distilled, farm-to-glass whisky, matured in ex-Bourbon and virgin American white oak barrels. It’s the first, very-limited release, of their core Masthouse whisky range, with column malt and grain whiskies to set sail over the next couple of years.

Made with the specially grown Kentish malted barley Belgravia, from the nearby Isle of Sheppey, this unfiltered, warming, youthful spirit is inspired by the ancient craft of mast-making at Chatham’s Royal Dockyard.

Copper Rivet distillery’s cofounder Stephen Russell explains: “We wanted to give consumers a clear idea of what to expect from Masthouse Whisky, so we created the INVICTA Whisky Charter™.

Every bottle clearly details the grain variety we use, the name of the field in which the grain 42 | December 2020 | SO Magazine

seasonal refreshments?

You don’t need to go far for some exceptional festive bottles as my curated selection of regional gin, fizz, still wine and whisky demonstrates.

Investing in what these incredible small businesses are producing will also mean you are helping to support an independent retailer – and let’s face it they need all the help they can get after such a tough year.

You don’t need me to tell you there’s never been a more important time to shop local, whether you’re browsing online or doing your seasonal shopping online. So, all that is left for me to say is cheers and Happy Christmas!

CRISP, ENLIVENING, CLASSIC PINK FIZZ FROM HUSH HEATH ESTATE Tesco Finest English Rosé Sparkling Brut NV, Hush Heath Estate, Staplehurst, Tonbridge, Kent £20, Tesco, Alc 11.5%

was grown and the barrel numbers from which the spirit was taken.”

Master Distiller Abhi Banik’s appetising tasting note reads as follows: ‘Green apple and ginger biscuit, tropical fruits and floral mid-notes, chocolate orange on the palate finished with malt and white pepper.’ I’d also add bell pepper, tropical white flowers and white chocolate fudge.

Gorgeous, hedonistic, irresistible stuff and a treat with 60-70% cocoa plain chocolate! Watch this space. copperrivetdistillery.com

There’s nothing like a glass of sparkling wine to mark an occasion. I’m a long-time fan of traditional method English bubbly and this elegant pinotnoir-forward example from Hush Heath Estate, one of the great wineries within our shores that’s also on our doorsteps, gets my vote and is terrific value for money. It’s dry and clean on the palate, with a charming mix of crisp, zingy, red apples, rhubarb, citrus and hedgerow/red fruits. Hugely cheerful. Pour it with salmon fillets, brown crab, guinea fowl, sushi and seafood. A perfect way to start your festive celebration. hushheath.com

AWARD-WINNING BUBBLES FROM ONE OF THE UK’S OLDEST COMMERCIAL VINEYARDS Breaky Bottom Cuvée Reynolds Stone Brut 2010, Rodmell, Lewes, East Sussex £32.95-£36.95, Corney&Barrow & Butlers Wine Cellar, Alc 12% This is something very special, a superbly-integrated blend of 70% late-picked Chardonnay, 15% Pinot Noir and 15% Pinot Meunier from a small (2.3ha chalky vineyard), idiosyncratic producer located around two miles from the English Channel, south of Lewes; all parcels gently whole-bunch pressed, with six years on lees prior to disgorgement. The bead is strong, saline acidity cuts through well and the red apple, nutty, citrusy, strawberry-crush and oyster shell flavours are just so tasty.

Compelling complexity and lengthy. Take a bow, winegrower Peter Hall. breakybottom.co.uk

V

N O .95 S RS 38 AY est.

PE £ D equ R E R E K on r PE FF E ailable 95 L O N Wns av 4. tio £ 4 I A S O e op EC ER n fre SP R P glute & PE egan

THE WARREN

CHRISTMAS PARTY MENU 2020 Available from 25th November for a pre order Warren bread & butter Amuse bouche STARTERS Pan seared foie gras, roasted spiced pear, charred brioche, gastrique of Grand Marnier *** Warren game terrine, Cumberland sauce, winter chutney, toast *** Beetroot cured salmon Gravadlax, rye bread, keta caviar & salad *** Roast butternut squash soup, beurre noisette, rosemary (VG) MAINS Warren turkey, all traditional Christmas trimmings *** Warren beef bourguignon, creamed potatoes, Warren mushrooms *** Baked fillet of hake topped with rarebit, sautéed potatoes, winter greens

*** Vegetable tagine & Israeli couscous, Kentish cherry tomatoes, golden raisins, Warren mint, roasted almonds & zaatar DESSERTS Chestnut dessert, Kraken spiced rum cream *** Warren Christmas pudding, Brandy butter & cream *** Burned orange & rosemary Crema Catalan, polenta cake *** Three notable local English cheeses, crackers, Warren preserves Warren Mince pies & Petits fours

Redefining Dining 5a The High Street, Tunbridge Wells 01892 328191 contact@thewarren.restaurant www.thewarren.restaurant

Drink

TWO SUPERIOR LOCAL STILL WINES BEAUTIFULLY INVIGORATING LIGHT-BODIED W. SUSSEX WHITE WINE Stopham Estate Pinot Blanc 2018, Stopham, Pulborough, W. Sussex £13.99-£15.99, Elizabeth Rose English Wines/Waitrose/WineBuyers/ GrapeBritannia, Alc 11.5% With sales of 5.5 million bottles last year – an astonishing 70 per cent more than in 2018 – England’s wine industry is on a roll, particularly after the hot, ripe and wonderfully productive 2018 vintage, which yielded the equivalent of 13m bottles of still and sparkling wine. This is my favourite still dry white from Stopham’s impressive portfolio.

You’ll find enticing notes of pink grapefruit, melon, lime, pear, spice and white peach, some pretty florals and a freshness to the finish. Bravo, truly a PB with lashings of flavour! Fresh and dangerously easy to drink. Drink it with salmon blinis, smoked salmon, prawn cocktail, organic oak-smoked Ashdown Foresters cheese, dim sum, Quiche Lorraine, veggie curry, fish pâté, charcuterie, gammon and other cooked meats for a perfect match or pour for a cool reviving aperitif, perhaps with some cheese straws? A really delicious wine. The bone-dry finish adds to the appeal. stophamvineyard.co.uk

12 local craft breweries worth knowing n Abyss Brewing, Uckfield

REFINED ELITE RED FROM A DREAM VINTAGE

n Ascension Cider, Polegate

Gusbourne Pinot Noir Boot Hill Vineyard 2018, Appledore, Kent

n Burning Sky Brewery, Firle

n Beak Brewery, Lewes n Cellar Head Brewing Company & Tap Room, Wadhurst n Downlands Brewery, Small Dole n Good Things Brewing Company, Eridge n Gun Brewery, Heathfield n Harvey’s Brewery, Lewes n Kent Brewery, Birling n Nightingale Cider Company, Tenterden n The Kent Cider Company, Faversham

£32.50-£35, Phoenix Wines & Gusbourne, Alc 12.5% This wine from a game-changing vintage is an unqualified success.

You’re in the most capable hands here as Gusbourne only make still wines in incomparable years. It’s 100% Pinot Noir, matured in French oak barrels (20% new, 80% old) for 9 months, from a small parcel within the southfacing Boot Hill Vineyard, which looks out over the Romney Marshes. Driven by rails of juicy natural acidity, this Pinot is vibrant and crunchy with scents and flavours of red fruit, earth and spice. There’s a tangy cranberried and light smoky aspect too.

Supple, silky mouthfeel and admirable length. All up, a Pinot of distinction that’s altogether really quite ethereal and beautiful.

On the subject of food pairing, Gusbourne winegrower Charlie Holland tells me: ‘For the festive and non-festive food, a Christmas bird with darker flesh would match well with our Pinot, so think of duck or goose [check out the de Goosebourne family crest] and serve with a fruit-based sauce, such as spiced cherries or orange citrus.’ It’s also one for roast beef, game, pink salmon fillets and seared tuna. gusbourne.com

12 other favourite local wine producers n Court Garden, Ditchling n Fox & Fox wines, Mayfield n Henners Vineyard, Hailsham n Hoffmann & Rathbone, Mountfield n Oxney Organic Estate, near Rye n Rathfinny Wine Estate, Alfriston n Wiston Estate, Pulborough n Davenport Organic Wines, Rotherfield & E. Sussex n Domaine Evremond, Chilham – Taittinger’s bubbly project in partnership with UK partners Hatch Mansfield. The winery, which will be capable of producing 400,000 bottles a year, and visitor centre are being built now (wine will be sold c.

2024) n Mereworth Wines, Mereworth n Roebuck Estates, Petworth n Simpsons Wine Estate, Barham

KNOCK KNOCK, IT’S GIN O’CLOCK! TWO WONDROUS LOCAL GINS LET THE ‘GIN-AISSANCE’ CONTINUE: GET INTO THE CHRISTMAS SPIRIT WITH MY FAV KENTISH GIN GENIE Greensand Ridge London Dry Gin, Shipbourne, Kent £32-£37, Fuggles Beer Café/ Geography TW/Gin Box Shop/ Master of Malt/The Secret Cellar, Alc 40% In 2018 the number of distilleries in England overtook those in Scotland for the first time. Launched in 2015, green-minded Greensand Ridge Distillery specialises in making spirits with produce which would otherwise go to waste. It was the carbon neutral winner of the 2019 sustainability awards from both the Drinks Business and Spirits Business 44 | December 2020 | SO Magazine

publications. This splendid, award-winning, small-batch gin is distilled from eight local botanicals, including handforaged gorse – plus seven more traditional ones – at a carbon-neutral and sustainable micro-distillery near Shipbourne. It makes a fabulous G&T with a garnish of bay leaf and juniper berries and is great on the rocks.

At the time of going to press, I discovered that Greensand Ridge has created ‘Blackcurrant Ghost’ from surplus Ribena berries. Will Edge, the company’s Founder and Director, told me: ‘It’s made to be served like a gin, with tonic. But it’s also great in cocktails like a Gin Sour and French 75.’ Look out for it at Fuggles. At times like these, thank God for gin! greensanddistillery.com

MUST-TRY BRAMBLY KENTISH SLOE GIN FOR STILTON Anno Distillers Sloe Gin, Marden, Kent £32.50-£36.70, The GinBox Shop/ Master of Malt/Anno Distillers, Alc 29% I’ll be asking Santa to pop a bottle of Anno’s sloe gin in my stocking this year. Massively juicy, classically tart, bright deep purple version from spirits masters Anno of Marden; superb with a chunk of stilton (or Kentish Blue). It has a marzipan, big red berry, gently nutty quality and a lovely refreshing tang. It’s also slightly drier than most less expensive renditions. Produced from a medley of local botanicals, including rosehips, elderflower, lavender and samphire from the Romney Marsh, as well as handpicked Kentish sloes.

Deliciously sophisticated stuff, indeed. annodistillers.co.uk

ADVERTISING

k Boo ine

Doing our best to bring you a festive ding dong Seasonal dishes served throughout December for parties of up to six

onl

Work from home, don't work from home, HOt desk at the pub

£10 FOR THE DAY | FREE WIFI | UNLIMITED TEA AND COFFEE | 10% OFF FOOD DESIGNATED QUIET AREA FOR HOT DESKERS | PRIVATE DESK WITH POWER SOCKETS

Fabulous Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve Feasting Vouchers available for the perfect Christmas present MORE INFO EMAIL

www.thebellinticehurst.com

INSTAGRAM

christmas@thebellinticehurst.com VOTED

@thebellinticehurst

TEL

01580 200 234

‘The Sunday Times’ Best Pub Hotel

www.sankeys.co.uk | 01892 511422 39 Mount Ephraim, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN4 8AA Sankeys QP.indd 1

23/10/2020 12:00

SO Magazine | December 2020 | 45

Lifestyle

Setting the scene for a delightful dining experience Tablescaping has become a huge trend over the past few years. Not heard of it?

Then here’s Sarah Freeman from local styling company Beyond the Table to tell you why you’ll never settle for just a plain old knife, fork and plate combo again…

So Sarah, let’s start with you telling us a bit about yourself…

I’m a former hotel and corporate events manager from Kent who loves nothing more than hosting, feeding and watering friends and family around my dining table at home.

So when and why did you decide to launch your own business?

I left my job in the city at the beginning of this year and launched my styling business Beyond The Table in February - tricky timing but when is launching your own business not a challenge!

What was the idea behind Beyond The Table?

It was the product of a long leisurely lunch (and a few glasses of wine!) in Tokyo the previous November. I talked with friends about their reluctance to host an event at home due to the planning 46 | December 2020 | SO Magazine

and effort involved as well as simply not knowing where to start.

Through experience, I know that there are many businesses and services available to support larger corporate events and weddings but far fewer businesses offering a service for smaller, private at home events. And so the concept of Beyond The Table was born!

Fundamentally it’s a business designed to help, guide, facilitate and engage with people in the art of hosting at home.

Have you always personally enjoyed dressing tables and collecting crockery and glassware?

I remember hosting my first dinner party at 15, the food was terrible and I spilt wax all over the carpet but I set and dressed the table, lit candles, picked flowers, made a playlist and invited some friends over. We sat, chatted and laughed

around the table for hours, so I’ve had the bug ever since! Dressing a table brings me so much joy and it’s such an important part of your event as it sets the scene and is where the action takes place!

What was your business model pre Covid restrictions?

To offer a comprehensive event planning and tableware hire service, working with a client from the inception of an event, managing and co-ordinating all logistics up to the moment their guests arrive. In normal times I will menu plan with clients or source catering, manage invites, liaise with suppliers, provide tableware, table dress and coordinate all preparations and final arrangements. Beyond The Table’s service is to provide knowledge, guidance and resource, relieving customers of any stress and time limitations involved in hosting at home.

“Dressing a table brings me so much joy, it sets the scene and is where the action takes place…”

And have you still been able to provide your services through the pandemic?

It’s been a bit of a roller coaster and there certainly were some obstacles I had to navigate but yes, I have been very fortunate and managed to deliver some great socially distanced events during that time. Of course others have been postponed until next year and there were some events where I had to be very creative! The beauty of Beyond The Table is that I focus on ‘at home events’ and that’s just where everyone has been!

How have you remodelled your offering during these difficult times?

The focus has taken a shift from comprehensive event management to a more paired-back tablescape design and tableware hire service.

But being a small independent business I have the ability to be flexible and adaptable.

Lifestyle

SARAH’S TIPS FOR TOP TABLES

In a pandemic-free world what are your favourite jobs to work on and why?

My favourite types of events are special family occasions. There is such a wonderful vibe when families come together, sitting around a table and enjoying good food, wine and predominantly, warm and familiar company. I think we have all realised that more than ever this year.

What inspires your tabletop creations?

I have never met a client with a predisposed idea of what their final tablescape will look like. I draw my inspiration from the location, the

occasion, the client themselves and the season. My goal is to create a beautiful tablescape but the end product must always complement what’s happening around that table.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

My career has always been in hospitality and I think that’s because of the joy I get from seeing people enjoy themselves in a social situation. I relish the moment just before I leave an event when the stage is set and the guests are beginning to arrive Being a part of helping to create this intimate setting is what I love most…

How do we transform a table setting from traditional to impressive?

Table linen. By simply adding a tablecloth and napkins the tablescape changes and is elevated in an instant. There is a plethora of gorgeous table linens available to purchase but I love to source fabrics and make my own so they work perfectly with the tablescape and offer something totally unique for the client.

What are your rules when it comes to adding signature accessories?

I have no real rules in terms of numbers but I do when it comes to managing the heights of your accessories and styling accents. Make sure you don’t obstruct the eyeline of any guests around the table.

Which are your favourite pieces to include in a table setting?

Flowers aren’t a must, but they do really elevate a table and also provide a great take-away gift for your guests at the end of a night as a little memento of the evening.

What are your current go-to festive table trends?

I love a bow and they really work well in a seasonal setting.

Whether you tie a big bow on each chair, around every plush napkin or incorporate them in your centre piece, they look great. My table will most definitely feature bows this year.

Top Tip: Match your table bows to bows on your tree or around your presents to link your concept together.

Are you going traditional or on trend this year?

There is something very romantic about a traditional festive table but I will be going on trend this year with a bold festive tablecloth, lots of bows and plenty of candles…

For more information on Beyond The Table and the services Sarah provides for all your dining needs visit www.beyondthetable.co.uk or see the Instagram account @_beyondthetable_ SO Magazine | December 2020 | 47

Beauty

You have to put your

hand up and say here’s what

F

our years ago, when my daughter was six months old, I was a busy mum of two with a demanding career. I craved a little bit of time to myself where I could just re-set myself.

Every time I got a half hour window to myself I’d waste it by thinking about what I should do with that time, and before I knew it, it was over.

What I really wanted was someone to just hand me a box, say “Here, take this, see you in 30 minutes. You’ll be a new person”. I subscribed to a lot of boxes that promised self-care and luxurious pampering, but all they did was make me feel drained by the prospect of figuring out how to use everything, and guilty that I’d spent money on it in the first place.

Since then I’ve polled many women about their beauty routines, the things they incorporate, and the things they wish they made the time for. I love a bath but really craved the idea of relaxing me-time while still being incredibly productive. So that’s what Self Care Sundays Box is. I put all of the thought and effort into the box, so the subscriber only has to follow the easy regime and relax while all of the amazing products work their magic.

Ask my husband if I was easy and breezy while turning this into a business a few years ago and you may get a different answer than what I’m about to say! It was easy in the sense that I knew what I wanted this to become, and I could see the route how to make it happen. The actual process of setting it all up was a lot of work

48 | December 2020 | SO Magazine

and moving parts, but incredibly worth it. For instance, I knew that I wanted this box to be bi-monthly (every other month) to ensure that the subscriber doesn’t experience product overwhelm. I also only believe in full-size products as I don’t think samples really have a place in a beauty routine. So, I needed to figure out what the right kind of regime would be, length of time, find brands that fit my ethos and all of the parameters I’ve set.

TARGET AUDIENCE

The woman who says to herself that she’ll make time for all of these things when things have calmed down a bit in her life is who this is aimed at. Because the point is that’s not going to be anytime soon, because we all lead wonderfully full lives that we’ve already filled up. The point of Self Care Sundays Box is to back off a bit from that full life and carve out a bit of time just for you.

Currently I’ve only made Self Care Sundays Box available in the UK. I have had enquiries from the US, Canada, and Europe, and the plan is to expand to those countries. However, I really believe in reducing our travel miles and being eco-luxury, so when I open the North American Self Care Sundays Box in 2021 I will be incorporating only products made from within those countries, and it will be fulfilled and shipped within those countries to reduce travel miles. I will be opening up to Europe in January, 2021 but I will be mostly focusing on British brands as I feel so strongly about supporting where I live.

I need, myself.

I need some time for

Try Self Care Sunday as a one-off (£72), sign up to receive a curated box every other month (£65) or send as a gift with a personalised note (£72) www.selfcaresundaysbox.com

Photos © Rose Bainbridge

Sandra Burley from local bespoke pampering company Self Care Sundays Box explains why a box of her delights makes the perfect gift – all year round…

ADVERTISING

EQUITY RELEASE With low interest rates and such a huge selection of flexible options, local adviser, Sarah Ferrell, talks about how considering Equity Release may be more attractive than ever before.

Why might I consider Equity Release?

There are many reasons why Equity Release may be a suitable option for people looking to raise capital in retirement - home Improvements, repaying a mortgage, gifts to family or just wanting to make retirement more financially comfortable.

Why is it so attractive now?

Low interest rates which are fixed for life are making borrowing attractive in an otherwise very uncertain climate.

In the past, Equity Release was seen somewhat as a “last resort” however nowadays it is considered far more part of retirement planning.

MORTGAGES

How can I use Equity Release to help my family?

With recent changes to the traditional mortgage market it is increasingly difficult for people to secure 90% mortgages. Those who are able to do so are paying considerably higher rates of interest for the privilege.

Parents releasing equity in order to help their children buy properties is becoming increasingly popular given the restrictions to borrowing.

The last few months have seen a massive change with withdrawal of many higher LTV products. This in turn means the younger generation are unable to secure the level of borrowing they were able to a few months ago without the help of their parents in many cases.

What are the down sides?

Using Equity Release, for whatever purpose, is likely to have an impact on

EQUITY RELEASE

is the timing better than ever? the Equity in your property longer term, however as many schemes are flexible this not always need be the case.

An Equity Release transaction is, however, designed to be a lifetime financial commitment and while many schemes offer flexibility to repay early, there can be penalties for early repayment, so it should be carefully and thoroughly considered before going ahead.

What is your advice to people considering Equity Release?

I feel it is important to carefully think about why you are looking at Equity Release as the financial solution for you and to also think carefully about the amount of money needed. I would always recommend talking the options through with a qualified professional as there are a number of different schemes and not every scheme is suitable for every person’s circumstances.

RE-MORTGAGE

With 27 years’ experience in finance and over 6 years specialising in Equity Release, Sarah takes pride in the time and care she takes with her clients. She is happy to visit your home and she is not just available 9-5, but will offer flexible times to suit her clients.

For more information or a free initial consultation, please call Sarah on 01622 631372, 07789 007447 or e-mail her at info@sarahferrell-equityrelease.co.uk

BUY-TO-LET

FIRST TIME BUYERS

Equity Release can reduce the value of your estate and can affect your eligibility for means tested benefits.

AU D L E Y C A R E W I L L I C O M B E PA R K We support you in your own home Our dedicated team of highly trained carers will support you based on your individual needs.

With a Good CQC rating, we will help you with as little or as much as you want. You only pay for the time you use.

We go the extra mile to ensure your needs are met in a safe way with all the correct protections in place.

Personal support | Companionship Housekeeping | Specialist care Contact us to find out more

01892 278 286 info@audleycare.co.uk www.audleycare.co.uk

SO Magazine | December 2020 | 49

PLOT OR NO Beauty

LEAN IN FOR CLEAN

are hand-picked from brands that deliver the best results, with the As most people will know clean highest of clean beauty and ecobeauty is a concept applied to beauty friendly standards. I test every that contains good ingredients and product as a full-size, and use it over a leaves out the nasty ones. I think it’s period of time to make sure that it too easy to get beauty products that doesn’t just look pretty or smell lovely, promise big things, but actually but actually works. Not just that, I contain harmful ingredients. I’m make sure they all complement each invested in the long-term health of other, in a cohesive self-care session. people, not just a quick fix for skin or In one of the recent curations I hair. It would be better to use olive oil worked with Lola’s Apothecary, Pure as your moisturiser and hair mask Savvy, Skin & Tonic, Upcircle Beauty, than something cheap with tonnes of and Moo Hair Edinburgh. Each chemicals. I think with clean beauty product in that curation ticked off a you get everything. Amazing different beauty to-do, products, wonderful and I try to choose results, and a healthy products that have body and planet. uses. For I have tried some of The point of Self multiple instance, the heavenly the big brands that Care Sundays bath oil I included in promise a lot and just that curation also is thought, they didn’t Box is to back used in the regime as a actually work. They off a bit from makeup remover, on made no difference to ends of your hair, my skin, hair or body, that full life and the on your cuticles, and as and while they would carve out a bit of a body oil. In look very impressive in curations I the box, and retail for time just for you upcoming have Kiss The Moon, quite a lot, that’s just 100 Acres, London not what I’m after. I Organic Beauty, and want to have put all of other amazing brands. the thought, effort and research into In a typical Self Care Sunday box the products in these boxes so that my you can expect to find a nourishing customers don’t have to. I want Self hair mask, a face mask/scrub, Care Sundays Box to be a brand that exfoliating body scrubs, hand and foot people trust for products that work treatments, overnight serums and and are good for you, as well as being masks, bath and body oils, and completely luxurious. Brands with whipped body souffles. They last high standards that match my values around two months if you are having and serious simplicity for the a weekly spa session. subscriber is my ethos.

When it comes to creating a selfcare routine don’t overthink it or over BOXING CLEVER plan it. It doesn’t have to be a big time My previous experience as a Spa commitment. While ideally you’d have Director for a large cosmetic 30 minutes to do the Self Care dermatology practice meant I Sundays Box routine, I’ve tested it and learned so much about skincare created it so that it can be done in as and products and saw the direct little as 15 minutes if that’s all a person correlation between women taking has. The point is to do self-care care of themselves and their regularly, that’s when it really adds confidence and happiness. something to your life.

All my Self Care Sunday products

50 | December 2020 | SO Magazine

Why ‘me time’ is must never be considered selfish

I’m a big believer that you’re doing EVERYONE a favour when you take time out for yourself. When you emerge from a glorious scented bath, when you walk out of a café having read a chapter and had a flat white. The world looks different. You’re a different person. You can be generous to everyone once you’ve taken care of yourself.

We’ve all heard it many times, but I’ll say it again The lowdown on here, all the cliches. WE ARE ALWAYS Sunday Self Care ON THE L Self-care isn’t selfish: Boxes: You have to put your Each box provides hand up and say “Here’s five full-size products of our what I need, I need Many from cleanclients luxury retain our s some time for myself.” to perform a cases,brands pay our fees saving prope simple 15-30 Commercial buildings for residential conv minutes-deep clean buildings for redevelopment, buildings f beauty session at for improvement, large sites on the edg home, each week for gardensapproximately in residentialtwo areas and major r months, along with a guide with easy step-by-step instructions.

NOT?

If you think your land or property has development potential, why not give us a call without obligation and in confidence.

SELL YOUR

DEVELOPMENT

OPPORTUNITY

FOR FREE

If you have a plot of land or property with planning permission for residential or commercial use, we can provide a free marketing service to secure the optimum sale value on your behalf and at no cost to you.

Please contact us for further details.

THE LOOKOUT FOR LAND AND PROPERTY WITH DEVELOPMENT POTENTIAL

n our services and, in the majority of g property owners significant costs.

ial conversion, former public houses, redundant ildings for conversion or replacement, houses the edge of town, barn conversions, large major regeneration projects.

Contact Stephen Donnelly on 07739 514350 or 01892 579937 website: sjd-projects.com email: steve@sjd-projects.com For regular updates, visit us at twitter.com/projects

Contact Stephen Donnelly: 07739 514350 • 01892 579937 • steve@sjd-projects.com

SJD-PROJECTS.COM

WELL-BEING

RECIPE FOR HEALTH SUCCESS: A WINTER WARMING ANTI-VIRAL HOT TODDY

Cold Comforts...

This anti-inflammatory, antiviral winter warmer hot toddy is perfect for the season of winter ailments.

Take as a preventative or when feeling under the weather.

It truly is medicinal and evokes such a feeling of warmth and protection it is sure to be loved by the whole family.

You need: Ginger – contains potent properties called gingerols that inhibit and tame the inflammation process that occurs during illness. It is warming and promotes mild sweating Star Anise – in 2005 the world was in short supply of this oriental spice due to the drug company Roche using it extensively in creating Tamiflu the drug against SARS Avian flu. It helps the body fight off illness and strengthens the immune system Cinnamon – research shows that cinnamon fights resistant bacterial and viral infections. It also stabilises blood sugar, has anti-clotting effects and combined with honey has been shown to relieve arthritic pain

Naomi Murray is the co-founder of the amazing apothecary Botanica Health in Rusthall. In her December column for SO magazine the herbalist and champion of natural remedies to aid our health and well-being reveals how to keep yourself fit and healthy during the colder months As we approach winter we instinctively feel a desire to hibernate.

The colder months offer an opportunity to hunker down, rest and recover from what has been, a particularly taxing year for many.

Although the winter months have beauty of their own, cold temperatures and longer periods inside can make us prone to colds and viruses.

But there is much you can do to optimise your wellbeing to remain as strong and robust as possible. www.botanicahealth.co.uk

52 | December 2020 | SO Magazine

Here’s my top ten of ways to avoid colds and the flu:

1.

Test your vitamin D levels. Vitamin D is important for overall healthy immune function and Vitamin D is a preventative strategy against influenza. If you are found to be deficient you may want to supplement with vitamin D

2.

If you have a virus consider the herb Andrographis. Studies are showing its efficacy in treating viruses and reducing the length of time of the illness. Not only can it help prevent a virus it seems to be very useful in post-viral fatigue

3.

Ensure you get a good night’s sleep. Just one night of poor sleep lowers immunity and raises inflammation. Magnesium, hot milk and honey and Ashwagandha can all be helpful

4.

Take a probiotic and include fermented food in your diet. In one study probiotic supplementation reduced the severity and duration of colds and upperrespiratory infections in college students

5.

Support gut health by eating a wide range of colourful vegetables, herbs and spices, green and black tea, good quality protein, reducing processed foods and eating organically where possible

6.

Stay active! Studies show that exercise slashes your risk of catching a cold or virus by nearly 50% and failing that made the virus less severe

7.

Prevent and treat influenza with elderberry, one of the best natural anti-virals. Symptoms were relieved on average four days earlier and use of rescue medication was significantly less in those receiving elderberry extract compared with placebo

8.

Try to minimise stress as too much weakens the immune system

9.

Granny was right!

Wear a scarf (even cover your nose) and keep cosy. A health study at Yale University showed that viruses reproduce more efficiently in cooler temperatures found inside the nose. The lower the temperature, the lower the innate immune response to viruses

Juniper – acts as a natural decongestant and moves excess mucus from the respiratory tract and dilates bronchial tubes. Care should be taken with juniper during pregnancy Heather honey – has been shown to be particularly effective in combating MRSA and research shows it is more beneficial than the more popular Manuka honey What to do: n Add to a teapot a thumb sized

piece of grated ginger, 4 crushed juniper berries, 4 star anise, 2 cinnamon sticks and a pinch of chilli flakes. n Pour over boiling water and infuse for around 10 minutes. n To a cup, add a freshly squeezed lemon and 1 heaped teaspoon of heather or raw honey. Pour hot toddy through a strainer into a cup.

Topping cup up as needed.

Naomi Murray

Co-founder of Botanica Health

ADVERTISING

Thank you

From everyone here at Coblands Garden Centre, we would like to thank you for your support in what has been an unusual year for us all.

We wish you and your family a very Happy Christmas and New year.

See you all in 2021!

Choose from our range of real wreaths decorated or plain to dress yourself from £10.99

Christmas planter £19.99

Christmas Gifts for Gardeners from £6

Christmas planter £29.99

Pot grown and cut real Christmas Trees from £25.99 Dryhill Lane, Sundridge, Sevenoaks, Kent TN14 6AA Tel: 01959 561274 coblandsgardencentre.co.uk All prices correct at time of going to press.

We’ve got designs on your garden

Tradi'onal or contemporary, large or small, the team at Gardenproud can help you create a garden you’ll be proud of.

Established in 2007, we design, build and maintain gardens throughout Kent, East Sussex and HerDordshire. See our Show Garden at Corker Outdoor Living, or ask for our e brochure. For our bespoke trellis products call Tim Sykes on 07725 173820

SO Magazine | December 2020 | 53

Interiors

Deck the Halls

Local interiors expert Joss Miller guides you on how to deck the halls – and everywhere else for that matter – in style this December

It’s

that time of year again when you have to clamber up into the loft for the Christmas decorations and look forward to some well-earned indulgence.

Perhaps this year we can justify doing the latter a little more than previous years - after all, 2020 certainly hasn’t been easy for anyone.

And the good news is, on the festive front anyway, nobody is on the naughty list this year!

So, with our homes even more treasured than before, having been our sanctuaries since the spring, we owe it to them to dress them from head to toe.

Let’s deck the halls - and the hallway, the staircase, the table, the coffee table, the fireplace, the sideboard, the windowsill, the walls, the doors - I think you get the idea…

Of course, the tree will always be the main event, but why stop there?

Especially this year.

I think it’s safe to assume there are no flight restrictions on Santa’s sleigh, and he’s ok to quarantine in January if need be so why not pull out all the stops to make your home fabulously festive?

We may still be waiting with bated breath on the rules for hosting groups, but let’s start with your hallway, where we can hope to blow away any guests we can welcome with first impressions.

We all love a wreath on the front door but hanging them in the hallway can really spruce this space up a bit depending on the size of yours. The White Company’s silver Metal Leaf Wreath (63.5cm £65) or the Ultimate 54 | December 2020 | SO Magazine

Greens and Berry Wreath (70cm £135 / 1m £375) are both beautiful products. The range also includes an Ultimate Greens and Berry Garland (1.8m £75 / 2.5m £125) to drape on your hallway panelling or to wrap around your staircase.

This is another space to get creative, whether with festive ribbon, sparkly stars or baubles. Yes, baubles are definitely not just for the tree! Why not try clustering a few on a shelf for an easy yet effective decoration.

CHRISTMAS PRESENCE In the living room there are plenty of styling possibilities, especially for the fireplace. Traditionally, candles are the go-to here. But why not be a little more adventurous? This year John Lewis has taken inspiration from seven of the world’s great art movements so why not create a dazzlingly rich display on the fireplace with products from The Renaissance Collection. The champagne wreath and garland will definitely bring some festive glitter to your home. (Wreath 60cm £40 / Garland 1.8m £35). And if you’d like a further splash of glamour, indulge in the pink Plume Spray (£12 each).

Moving on to the dining area, again the styling options are endless. Last year, I scattered mini baubles on the table, and tied them to napkins. This year, I’m going to add a garland and reindeer ornaments too. I love The White Company Pinecone Placecard Holders (set of 6 £25). The kids can even help you make the name cards for extra fun! Lastly, for inspiration around the table, if you have a chandelier or large pendant above, why not hang stars or baubles from it to make the space feel even more loved.

For more festive inspiration follow Joss on Instagram @jossmillerinteriors or get in touch via her website www.jossmiller interiors.co.uk

If you’d like even further decoration for your table, how about some accent accessories? My favourites are the John Lewis Art Nouveau Standing Owl in teal (and blues are proving on trend this year) and the Amara Living Swan ornament (£65).

Another tip I wanted to share is about your traditional tree decorations. The John Lewis Bird Clip On Tree products are fabulous. You can also clip these to your table napkins, or attach them to ribbons on your presents (a pack of 4 is £12 and available in a variety of colours).

Lastly, I’d like to share a couple of rainbow products with you - after all this image has been rather

unforgettable this year, reuniting us all during the most difficult of times. John Lewis have a rainbow bauble (£8) and wreath - maybe consider using the bauble as an ornament on the fireplace or table? And add a pop of colour to a wall with the wreath. You can also help a good cause, with John Lewis pledging 25% to NHS Charities Together when you buy the bauble.

Have fun styling your home this Christmas! And remember if you need to be frugal this year you can find foliage in the garden for wreaths and garlands, and you can get creative with the bauble collection you already own - finding new spaces for some of your dearest bits of sparkle!

Luxury Kitchens since 1892

Clear structures, sensible space. +SEGMENTO Y

Poggenpohl Tunbridge Wells 39-41 The Pantiles | Tunbridge Wells | TN2 5TE phone 01892 240745 | tunbridgewells@poggenpohl.com www.tunbridgewells.poggenpohl.com

FOR DECEMBER:

TOP TIPS IN THE GARDEN

Outside Edge

1 2

Dig over empty borders and prepare your soil for next year’s planting

Harvest holly with berries for making Christmas garlands and wreaths. Stand them in a bucket of water until you’re ready to use them

Get pruning - wisteria, fruit trees, roses and Japanese maples are just some of the plants that benefit from a winter prune. If not they will bleed sap if pruning is done any later

You don’t have to look too far for some seasonal splendour says Victoria Truman. Most of it can be foraged or found in your garden

B

erry reds and greens take centre stage in December in the garden and in turn these colours can be brought inside and used to add to your Christmas decorations and all-round festive cheer.

A favourite of many is the rich red ‘Euphorbia pulcherrima‘ better known as poinsettia. The vibrant red colour sings with Christmas spirit and, with the festive season being a time for entertaining, these plants also make great host gifts - instead of bringing the traditional bottle of wine or oodles of sweets.

Have a few in stock to give to loved ones to ensure they have the most wonderful time of the year…

When decorating inside your home remember to keep your schemes bold and full of impact by using plenty of the same type of plant around the

house as you would in your garden. makes a great centrepiece for kissing under!

Be sure to make any creation extra large and tie with a big red bow to hang from the ceiling. This cheeky evergreen is as much an emblem of Christmas as the tree itself. Buy fresh and also use some poked into your wreath following the theme through into your house.

Holly- Ilex aquifolium is perfect for wreath and garland making, a favourite of mine is the ‘Silver Queen’, which has a cream margin on its leaves, making it look frosted. For an option which is not as sharp as traditional holly, choose Ilex aquifolium ‘Alaska’, which also bears beautiful red berries over winter.

Silver birch branches can be used to make wreaths and entwined with holly for garlands, wrap fairy lights in and around the branches and conceal the battery pack behind ribbon, glitter spray could

3 4

Look after the birds clean feeders, stock up on fat balls and make sure they have access to fresh water Prune climbing roses now, removing diseased or damaged growth and tying in any new shoots to their support. Prune older flowered side shoots back by two thirds of their length

5

Leave the faded flower heads on your hydrangeas until spring, as they provide frost protection to the swelling buds further down the stems

6

If any of your rose bushes suffered from blackspot or rust this summer, gather up and remove any fallen leaves to reduce the chance of infection next year

7 8

Lift and store dahlia tubers once their leaves are blackened by frost

Move containers of shrubs or bedding planters to sheltered spots; clustering them together them together helps protect the root systems from suffering frost damage

9 56 | December 2020 | SO Magazine

Check climbers are securely attached to their supports with ties

be used on the branches and small baubles twisted onto the wreath using florist wire or leave it beautifully simple as is.

HAVE A GREEN PARTY Other plants to use would be eucalyptus, berried ivy, berried eucalyptus, variegated ivy, ruscus, robusta, pittosporum, eryngium, roses or nerine.

Painted gold berries and pears mixed with seasonal foliage makes for a fabulous table centrepiece dotted with candles amongst the foliage in long candlesticks.

Place holly behind picture frames, and foliage and candles on the sideboard. Pine cones and spruce branches strung along mantlepieces and fairy lights strung along their branches is another way to create a stunning seasonal piece using natural materials.

Bare winter branches have a delicate look so use small baubles that catch the light dotted along the branches for a more modern and contemporary decoration.

If your Christmas tree feels a bit sparse pad it out with additional foliage, such as eucalyptus and snowberry inserted between the branches.

ADVERTISING

BEAUTIFUL CONVERSIONS, RESTORATIONS AND NEW BUILDS

BEAUTIFUL CONVERSIONS, RESTORATIONS AND NEW BUILDS BEAUTIFUL CONVERSIONS, RESTORATIONS AND NEW BUILDS

Get in touch Gettoday in touch to talk today to us to about talk toyour us about project: your project: 01580 857718 01580| 857718 07587 272928 | 07587| 272928 mike@phoenixdc.co.uk | mike@phoenixdc.co.uk | phoenixdc.co.uk | phoenixdc.co.uk

Get in touch today to talk to us about your project: o us about your project: 01580 857718 | 07587 272928 | mike@phoenixdc.co.uk | phoenixdc.co.uk 2928 | mike@phoenixdc.co.uk | phoenixdc.co.uk

Get in touch today to talk to us about your project: 01580 857718 | 07587 272928 | mike@phoenixdc.co.uk | phoenixdc.co.uk

SO Magazine | December 2020 | 57

First Drive

Motors

First drive: Bentley Flying Spur

Bentley’s Flying Spur is a car steeped in tradition, but can it translate this to the modern age? Jack Evans gets behind the wheel to find out WHAT IS IT? Few names are quite as evocative in the motoring world as ‘Flying Spur’. The mere thought conjures up ideas of grandeur, effortless performance and unsurpassed luxury. Unsurprisingly, Bentley sees the new Flying Spur as quite a crucial part of its line-up, which is why it has attempted to bring these age-old traits into its new battlecruiser.

The question is, can this latest Flying Spur deliver these classic aspects while bringing it into the modern age?

WHAT’S NEW? As you might expect, Bentley really has thrown the works into its third-generation Flying Spur. It’s got all-wheel-steering for the first time on a Bentley, while all-wheeldrive feature too to help the Flying Spur keep on the straight and narrow. In another first for a modern Bentley, the Spur features a retractable ‘Flying B’, which is operated by the widescreen infotainment display. A question of security or unbridled showing off? You decide – but it’s certainly cool to operate.

All of this is sewn together with a beautifully handmade interior, while the engine itself is yet another masterpiece of engineering – though we’ll get onto that in more detail very shortly.

58 | December 2020 | SO Magazine

WHAT’S UNDER THE BONNET? Lurking under the Flying Spur’s elongated nose is one of the last bastions of large capacity engines.

It’s a 6.0-litre twin-turbocharged W12, hand-built in Crewe, and it’s the same as you’ll find in the smaller Continental GT. Here, it kicks out 626bhp and a hefty 900Nm of torque, driven to all four wheels through an eight-speed dual-clutch gearbox from ZF. It’s got enough grunt to lug the Flying Spur from 0-60mph in a frankly eyebrow-raising 3.7 seconds, while if you’ve got enough space and permission to do so, it’ll crack 207mph flat out.

When it comes to emissions, the Flying Spur emits a rather chunky 337g/km CO2, while returning 19.1mpg combined.

WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE? Take a look at the Flying Spur’s lengthy wheelbase and generous tyres, and it’s not hard to understand that it’s a car which has been designed with a close eye on refinement. Up and running it’s easy to see, with the car whisking along at generous speeds without the merest whisper to detect in the cabin. It is, quite frankly, a sumptuous car to drive, with a ride and powertrain as smooth as Jersey cream.

FACTS AT A GLANCE Model: Bentley Flying Spur Base price: £168,300 Engine: 6.0-litre W12 Power: 626bhp Torque: 900Nm Max speed: 207mph 0-60mph: 3.7seconds MPG: 19.1 Emissions: 337g/ km CO2

There’s a small patter from the suspension – just enough to let you know that there is, indeed, a road going underneath you – but apart from that, you’re free to sit back and simply enjoy the ride.

The engine itself is a powerhouse of near untappable reserves; lean on the throttle and the Flying Spur delves to higher speeds with little fuss nor ceremony. There’s a small undercurrent of exhaust noise, but it’s more there to highlight the engine rather than to throw it into real emphasis.

WHAT’S IT LIKE INSIDE? It’s when you step into the cabin of the Flying Spur that you really get to appreciate the level of craftsmanship that’s gone into

creating it. High-quality materials are used across the board, with barely a surface lacking any metal, leather or wood coverings. Up front, the seating position is good, while those sitting in the rear really do have the best seats in the house when it comes to outright comfort.

There’s even a decent-sized boot, offering up 420 litres as standard. A hatch in the middle allows you to slot longer items through to the cabin; we thought fence posts, but Bentley probably has skis and poles in mind as a more appropriate cargo.

WHAT’S THE SPEC LIKE? Given the Flying Spur is accompanied by a price-tag knocking on £170,000 even before options, it’s probably a relief to find it’s already well-laden in standard equipment. The most notable inclusion is the new infotainment setup, which is head-and-shoulders above ones we’ve seen on previous Bentleys.

It comprises a 12.3-inch screen and gives access to all of the major media and navigation functions you’d expect. There’s also a virtual cockpit-style driver display in place of the conventional dials. Our only objection here is the area around the switchgear; it’s a little bit busy and can make even simple adjustments – like putting on your heated seat, for instance – take more time than you’d want.

VERDICT Bentley traditionally knows what it is doing when it comes to supremely luxurious, high-end saloons. This latest Flying Spur is a real extension of that knowledge, showcasing everything the firm has learnt over many, many years of creating tip-top cars.

This latest model is by far the most well-rounded to date, bringing involvement for the driver as well as unparalleled comfort for passengers. It does this in typically unflustered Bentley fashion. The Spur is a car which is as relaxing to drive as it is to be driven in and, as such, is likely to appeal to a wide variety of buyers.

SURGICAL RESULTS

SURGICAL RESULTS WITHOUT THE SCARS

S U RW G II C A L RUETS U L TES S C A R S TH SOUUTRTHGTOH I CE AS LC RE ULTS W I T H S U R G I C A L R E S UA LRTSS

SURGICAL W I T H O U T T H E S C AForRyour S free consultation W I T H O U T T H E S C A R S with Dr MarkWHolmes I T H at OUT T Bella Vou, Pantiles Clinic call 01892 257357 or email hello@bellavou.co.uk

SURGICAL RESULTS WITHOUT THE SCARS

FaceTite provides dramatic improvement in skin laxity dramatic in skin laxity on theFaceTite face and provides neck, similar to that improvement of a mini-facelift. on utilizes the face and neck, similar to that of a mini-facelift.

FaceTite provides dramatic improvement in skin laxity FaceTite minimally invasive radio-frequency FaceTite provides dramatic improvement in skin FaceTite laxity provides dramatic FaceTite provides dramatic improvement in skin laxity FaceTite provides dramatic improvementenergy in skin FaceTite utilizes minimally invasive on the face and similar tocontract thatradio-frequency of athe mini-facelift. tolaxity reduce fat andneck, simultaneously on the face and neck, similar to that of a mini-facelift. the You face andtoneck, similar to that of awithout mini-facelift. onthe the face and on the face and neck, similar to that ofon a skin. mini-facelift. energy reduce fat and simultaneously contract the neck, simila are left with surgical-like results FaceTite utilizes minimally invasive radio-frequency FaceTite utilizes minimally invasive radio-frequency FaceTite utilizes invasive radio-frequency FaceTite utilizes energy to reduce fat and simultaneously contract theutilizes minimally invasive radio-frequency addedenergy downtime.

FaceTite skin.

Youtominimally are left with surgical-like results without the minimally in reduce fat and simultaneously contract

skin. You are left with surgical-like results without the energy to reduce fat and simultaneously contract energy theto reduce fat and sim energy to reduce fat and simultaneously contract the added downtime. skin.

You are left with surgical-like results without the added downtime.

Before

Significant reshaping of neck area without scars S Mulholland

Significant reshaping of neck area without scars

Before After Before reshaping of neck area without After scars Significant Before After Before Before After Significant reshaping of neck area without scars Significant reshaping of neck area without scars Significant reshaping of neck ar Significant reshaping of neck area without scars

Improvement of skin laxity on face and neck

S Mulholland

S Mulholland

C Mizgala

Before

After

Improvement of skin laxity on face and neck

S Mulholland S Mulholland

After

After

S Mulholland

Before

P Rovatti

After

P Rovatti

Before

P Rovatti P Rovatti

P Rovatti

P Rovatti

skin.without You arethe left with surgical-like results without skin.the You are left with surgic skin. You are left with surgical-like results added downtime. added downtime. added downtime. added downtime.

Before After Significant reshaping of the jawline without scars Before After Improvement of skin laxity on face and neckBefore Before After Before After Improvement of skin laxity on face and neck Improvement of skin laxity on face and neck Improvement of skin laxity on f Improvement of skin laxity on face and neck After

C Mizgala

Before

Significant reshaping of the jawline without scars

C Mizgala C Mizgala

After

C Mizgala

C Mizgala

Before

Before After Before reshaping of the jawline After Significant Before After without scars Before Before After Significant reshaping of the jawline without scars reshaping of the jawline without scars Significant reshaping of the jaw Significant reshaping of the jawline withoutSignificant scars

E: hello@bellavou.co.uk T: 01892 257357 W: www.bellavou.co.uk